In São José do Xingu, Brazil, six people were arrested in connection with a criminal faction under investigation for the murder of Marcos José Vieira Lima, also known as "Borel." The operation, which took place on Thursday, was part of a broader effort to tackle organized crime in the region, resulting in 14 judicial orders being executed across multiple cities. The names of the suspects have not been disclosed by the police, highlighting the ongoing nature of the investigations.

The police revealed that the homicide occurred on August 25, 2025, and involved a brutal internal punishment, referred to as a "salve," which was a torturous method accompanied by a so-called "tribunal do crime" or crime tribunal. Such justice systems within criminal factions often take the place of formal legal processes, leading to horrifying consequences for those deemed traitors or a threat to the organization. The investigation suggests that Borel had been punished for betraying factional leadership.

This incident underscores the ongoing violence and challenges law enforcement faces in combating organized crime in Brazil, particularly in remote regions where criminal factions exert significant control. The swift action taken by law enforcement may signal an attempt to restore order, but the deep-rooted issues surrounding drug trafficking, faction wars, and community safety remain prevalent, suggesting that the fight against organized crime is far from over.