Brazilian authorities have significantly boosted security measures in preparation for the upcoming visit of Prince William to Rio de Janeiro following a violent day that resulted in the deaths of 64 individuals, including four police officers. A crackdown operation led to the arrest of 80 suspects linked to the feared criminal group known as Comando Vermelho. The government’s urgent focus is on capturing the gang’s leader, Edgard Alves Andrade, before the prince’s scheduled arrival on Friday to receive the Earthshot prize for environmental efforts.
In response to the escalating situation, a large-scale manhunt involving armed units has been deployed to track down Andrade, who is accused of over 100 murders and goes by the alias “Urso” (Bear). Security has been heightened with the deployment of additional officers and military personnel amid concerns of potential violence during Prince William’s stay in Brazil.
Andrade, a prominent figure in the Red Command gang, narrowly eluded capture during a massive police operation in two Rio de Janeiro slums. Authorities have set a record reward of £14,000 for any information leading to his apprehension. This bounty marks the largest ever offered by Disque Denuncia, an organization established three decades ago in Rio.
Notorious for his involvement in heinous crimes, Andrade has been linked to various cases, including the triple murder of doctors in Tijuca and the disappearance of three children from Belford Roxo. Born in Paraiba, Brazil, Andrade has been on the run since his escape from prison in 2017, with multiple arrest warrants issued against him. The ongoing investigation highlights his alleged role in numerous homicides and criminal activities.
Rio Governor Claudio Castro described the city as being in a state of “war” amid fierce confrontations between law enforcement and criminals. The recent police raid targeted the Red Command, Brazil’s oldest criminal faction, known for its extensive drug and extortion operations across South America. The operation witnessed intense gun battles, with gang members resorting to using drones to attack authorities.
As tensions escalate ahead of Prince William’s visit, Rio remains on high alert as authorities intensify efforts to capture Andrade and bring an end to the violent activities plaguing the city.
