In a recent decision, the Federal Police of Brazil denied a request from the Rio de Janeiro city hall to permit all members of the Municipal Force, known as the Elite Division of the Municipal Guard, to bear arms. The police cited existing legislation that prohibits the provision of firearms to individuals outside specific roles within the municipal guard. This decision has significant implications for the city's law enforcement strategy, particularly in the context of rising crime rates and public safety concerns.

In response to the denial, Mayor Eduardo Paes announced new regulations that will limit the ability to carry firearms to only tenured municipal guards and permanent staff. Temporary agents, who are typically employed for short durations, will now be restricted to administrative duties with no authorization to carry weapons. This shift underscores a change in strategy for how the city manages its armed forces, focusing on a more controlled and limited approach to law enforcement weaponry.

The announcement was made by Vice Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere during the opening of the legislative year at the City Council. This development highlights the ongoing discussions regarding the balance between public safety initiatives and the management of law enforcement resources in Brazil, especially within the urban setting of Rio de Janeiro, which has faced challenges in crime control and community safety.