As the street carnival in Rio de Janeiro unfolds, it remains a significant focal point for public safety concerns, with reports of violence and crime surfacing annually. Despite the Military Police's assertions of intensified operations, numerous festival-goers have come forward with accusations of theft, muggings, and large group assaults that disrupt the festive atmosphere. The areas surrounding Cinelândia, Lapa, Glória, and Aterro do Flamengo have particularly been under scrutiny following an uptick in these incidents.

Eyewitness accounts highlight alarming instances, such as an incident reported by university student Amanda Magalhães, who described witnessing large groups of individuals engaging in theft, with one particularly harrowing case of a girl being assaulted for her belongings. Additionally, an anonymous festival participant recounted a moment of distress when they observed minors fleeing from the police during a block party event in the city center. This incident emphasizes the chaotic nature of these gatherings, where youth criminal activity appears to be a rising concern.

In response to these troubling trends, law enforcement has categorized these actions as 'crimes of opportunity.' The Police are attempting to navigate the balance between maintaining public safety and allowing the celebration of Carnival to continue. The reports from the public suggest that unless more decisive measures are taken, the enjoyment of this famed festival may be overshadowed by the looming threat of crime, presenting a complex challenge for both officials and participants alike.