Explosive drones used by criminal factions threaten Jacarepaguá flight paths

Criminal factions in Rio de Janeiro are increasingly using drones equipped with grenades to conduct attacks, creating significant aviation risks in the Jacarepaguá region. These devices have been used in conflicts between rival groups, such as the Comando Vermelho and Terceiro Comando Puro, specifically in areas like the Favela dos Irmãos in Curicica.

Pilots operating at Jacarepaguá Airport have reported that the flight paths used by these drones intersect with the visual corridors used by helicopters during critical approach and takeoff phases. This overlap poses a high risk of mid-air collisions. Such activity violates regulations set by the Department of Airspace Control (Decea), which prohibits drone flights near airports.

In a recent incident, a drone-launched grenade injured a man, leading to the arrest of two suspects by the Military Police. Authorities also seized homemade grenades, cash, and the drone used in the attack. Investigations suggest that criminal groups are also using these drones to create barriers to hinder aerial monitoring by security forces.