Brazil organized crime expands via drone surveillance and financial infiltration

Organized crime in Brazil is increasingly utilizing advanced technology and financial systems to expand its operations. Criminal groups are employing drones to monitor police movements, observe strategic areas, and transport illicit substances into prisons. In Rio de Janeiro, the Military Police seized over 40 drones between January and August 2026, a significant increase from the previous year.

Beyond physical surveillance, criminal organizations are infiltrating the formal economy. Security expert Ricardo Gennari warns that factions are using fintechs, shell companies, and legitimate businesses to launder billions of reais. He argues that law enforcement must shift strategy toward ‘following the money’ to dismantle the economic power of these groups. This trend is reflected in data from Coaf, which produced a record 20,548 financial intelligence reports in 2025.