Juiz de Fora Municipal Guard begins armed operations

The Municipal Guard of Juiz de Fora has begun operating with firearms as of Friday, October 4. A total of 87 agents are authorized to carry 9 mm pistols following a training process that included psychological and toxicological exams, as well as theoretical and practical instruction in weaponry and shooting.

The initiative is part of a new municipal public security policy. Mayor Margarida Salomão announced a total investment of R$ 1.2 million for the project, which includes R$ 300,000 for the purchase of weapons and ammunition and R$ 700,000 for agent training, with the remainder covering equipment, exams, and technical consultancy.

During a ceremony held at the City Hall, the Mayor stated that the presence of equipped guards serves as a deterrent to transgressors and provides increased safety for the officers themselves, who have previously faced hostility from armed individuals while performing their duties. The training program followed requirements established by the Federal Police for the granting of firearm permits to municipal guards.