# Brazil firearm recadastre and seizure surge

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/brazil-firearm-recadastre-and-seizure-surge
> Updated: 2026-08-19T23:26:42.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

In late July 2026, a Sou da Paz report highlighted a 165% rise in rifle seizures across Brazil, spreading from Rio de Janeiro to 25 of the 27 federative units. The surge was particularly intense in Maranhão (229%), Tocantins (162%), and São Paulo (111%). Researchers José Roberto de Toledo and Samira Bueno linked this escalation to 2019 decrees that eased access to restricted firearms. 

In response, the Rio de Janeiro state government mandated an extraordinary, compulsory recadastre of all restricted-use weapons—including rifles, carbines, and submachine guns—held by security forces and private holders. Agencies were given 30 days to report inventories and irregularities to strengthen internal controls and oversight.

By August 2026, the Military Police reported reaching a milestone of 500 rifles seized in 2026, a 15% increase over the same period in 2025. High seizure rates were noted in specific Rio de Janeiro units, such as the 41st BPM in Irajá. 

Concurrently, data revealed that between January 2022 and July 2025, over 12,000 firearms registered to Collectors, Shooters, and Hunters (CACs) were lost, stolen, or robbed. Research published via the Ministry of Justice and Public Security identified the domestic legal market as a predominant source for the illicit arms trade, noting that illegal supply often stems from diversions through theft, robbery, or intermediaries moving legally acquired weapons into criminal sectors.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-19: Brazil reports rise in rifle seizures and loss of 12,000 registered firearms

Brazil reports a rise in rifle seizures by police and the disappearance of over 12,000 firearms registered to collectors and hunters, fueling the illegal arms market.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/brazil-reports-rise-in-rifle-seizures-and-loss-of-12000-registered-firearms

### 2026-07-26: Brazil reports 165% rise in rifle seizures amid Rio de Janeiro weapon recadastre

Brazil saw a 165% jump in rifle seizures nationwide, with spikes in several states, linked to relaxed gun laws, while Rio de Janeiro ordered a mandatory recadastre of restricted weapons from police and public‑h

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/brazil-reports-165-rise-in-rifle-seizures-amid-rio-de-janeiro-weapon-recadastre

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Cite as: Brazil firearm recadastre and seizure surge. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/brazil-firearm-recadastre-and-seizure-surge