Brazil criminal factions use organized kill lists amid rising violence

Police investigations in Mato Grosso revealed that criminal groups such as the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho run a covert intelligence system to select murder targets. The process involves gathering social‑media profiles, photos, tattoos and WhatsApp conversations, followed by a clandestine “tribunal” that often decides execution without any legal defense. Recent victims identified by investigators include tattoo artist Leandro Perboni, resident Elismar Saltiva Sales and 21‑year‑old Karine Estefane Pereira dos Santos, all killed after being mistakenly linked to the PCC.

A separate national debate series, "Brasil Adiante," is addressing Brazil’s broader violence crisis. While homicide numbers fell to a historic low of 44,1 thousand in 2024 – the smallest tally since 2012 – public perception of insecurity remains high. Analysts note that organized crime’s territorial control, extortion, and a near‑million phone‑theft cases keep fear widespread. The series aims to craft policy proposals for the next government to reduce murders and align Brazil’s safety levels with those of developed nations.