Forensic examinations conducted by the Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro have uncovered that several firearms used in a number of homicides are linked to organized crime, specifically to illegal gambling ('jogo do bicho') and the illegal cigarette trade. This alarming discovery suggests a pattern in violent crimes that are associated with the activities of a notorious figure, Adilson Oliveira Coutinho Filho, known as Adilsinho, who is implicated in a series of murders, assassination attempts, and kidnappings for ransom. The police are currently investigating at least 20 crimes that may be connected to an extermination group tied to Adilsinho.

The investigations by the Capital Homicide Division have focused on 11 murders and one attempted murder that occurred between May 2022 and October 2025. The forensic evidence has confirmed that a particular rifle was used in seven different executions from 2022 to 2023. Among those killed are individuals with ties to criminal activities, including known members of organized crime and law enforcement officers, indicating the level of violence and retribution that exists within these criminal networks. The case has drawn significant media attention, highlighting the dire situation regarding organized crime in Rio de Janeiro.

The arrest of Adilsinho in Cabo Frio on Thursday marks a critical point in the ongoing investigation into these violent incidents. Authorities hope that this arrest may lead to further insights into the workings of these criminal organizations and potentially curb the spike in violence driven by the turf wars and revenge killings prevalent in the region. As the investigation unfolds, there are growing concerns about the implications for public safety and the rule of law in areas heavily affected by organized crime.