Leader of CV accused of ordering the murders of a lawyer and personal trainer in Ceará dies in police action in SP
Breno Araújo Xavier da Silva, known as 'Blindado', the alleged leader of the Comando Vermelho in Ceará, was killed in a police confrontation in Atibaia, São Paulo.
Breno Araújo Xavier da Silva, also referred to as 'Blindado', was identified as the head of the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Ceará. His death occurred during a police confrontation in Atibaia, São Paulo, after law enforcement located him based on investigations by Ceará's police regarding multiple murder warrants. He was widely regarded as a major figure in organized crime in the region, highlighting the extent of criminal networks operating in Brazil.
Prior to his demise, Blindado was wanted by the justice system in Ceará, facing three outstanding arrest warrants for serious crimes, including the assassination of lawyer Silvio Vieira da Silva in 2025 and personal trainer Felipe Lucena in 2022. Both murders were executed in Fortaleza, signaling a dangerous climate surrounding individuals involved in legal and physical training professions who may be at risk due to their positions or personal conflicts within the underworld. The resolution of this case reflects an ongoing effort by law enforcement to dismantle organized crime in Brazil.
The investigation into Blindado's criminal activities was spearheaded by the 10th Homicide and Protection to Persons Department (10th DHPP) along with the Anti-Arms Trafficking Division of Ceará's Civil Police. The operation that led to Blindado's death demonstrates the police's commitment to addressing gang violence and organized crime through targeted actions, highlighting the challenges they face in combating such entrenched criminal entities. His death may create a temporary disruption in the organizational leadership of Comando Vermelho but could also lead to power struggles or retaliations among rival factions.