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[CRIME] · Brazil · 40 sources

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Rio de Janeiro Federal Police dismantle internet monopoly scheme

The Brazilian Federal Police launched Operation Backbone to dismantle an illegal internet monopoly controlled by the Comando Vermelho criminal faction in Rio de Janeiro. The operation targeted the Alemão, Penha, and Chapadão complexes, where armed criminals allegedly used violence and sabotage to force residents and businesses to use faction-controlled providers.

Investigators found that criminals cut cables and burned distribution boxes of competing providers to eliminate competition. In the Penha complex, internet service fees accounted for more than 40% of the faction's monthly revenue. The group used various businesses, including event producers, advertising agencies, and accounting firms, to launder profits, which were also hidden through luxury real estate and cryptocurrencies.

The operation, authorized by Supreme Court Minister Alexandre de Moraes, involved 23 preventive arrest warrants and 24 search and seizure warrants. Notable arrests include Márcia Gama Nepomuceno and Lucas Santos Nepomuceno, the mother and brother of rapper Oruam. The court also ordered the freezing of up to R$ 558 million in assets belonging to 40 individuals and 42 companies.

Entities

Alexandre de Moraes · Anatel · Civil Police of Bahia · Civil Police of Goiás · Comando Vermelho · Federal Police · Juazeiro · Lucas Santos Nepomuceno · Marcinho VP · Márcia Gama Nepomuceno · Oruam · Polícia Federal

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