Brazilian Army ammunition diverted to Comando Vermelho

A new study by the Instituto Sou da Paz has revealed that rifle ammunition purchased by the Brazilian Army is being diverted to organized crime groups, specifically the Comando Vermelho. By analyzing more than 31,000 intact cartridges seized by police across various states, researchers found that four out of ten munitions found with members of the criminal organization were of national manufacture.

The investigation, based on judicial processes and forensic reports, noted that some ammunition was produced shortly before being seized. While national munitions purchased by security forces have included traceability codes for approximately two decades, the study highlights structural difficulties in mapping the internal distribution chain once items are delivered by manufacturers.

Specific instances identified include ammunition used by criminals during a major operation in Rio de Janeiro in 2025, which belonged to public security arsenals. Additionally, a 2019 seizure in the Federal District involving 1,804 cartridges destined for Rio de Janeiro contained lots belonging to the Army, the military police of the Federal District and Rio de Janeiro, the Mato Grosso State Security Fund, and the Ministry of Justice. Bruno Langeani, a consultant for the Instituto Sou da Paz, stated that the diversion represents a large source involving many people that has not been fully dismantled by police.