On Friday, eleven military police officers were taken into protective custody as part of Operation 'Simulacrum', conducted by the Public Ministry of the State of Amazonas in Manaus. This operation comes in the wake of the investigation into the death of 19-year-old João Paulo Maciel dos Santos, who was killed during a police operation in the Vila da Prata neighborhood in West Zone of Manaus in October 2025. The case has drawn significant attention following the release of videos capturing the moments of the police's approach to Santos.

The investigation targets irregularities reportedly committed by officers from the Cândido Mariano Ostensive Patrol (Rocam), a specialized unit deployed in the region. Notably, Captain Wilkens Diego Feitosa da Silva was among those arrested. Authorities revealed that there is still one outstanding arrest warrant yet to be executed, as the implicated officer is currently out of state. In total, the court issued 38 warrants, including 11 for preventive arrest, 19 for search and seizure, and eight additional precautionary measures other than arrest.

According to the Public Ministry, a total of 19 military police officers have been denounced in connection with this case, indicating a considerably serious breach of conduct within the police force. This situation highlights ongoing concerns in Brazil regarding police violence and the accountability of security forces, especially given the growing military influence within police operations. The implications for community trust and future policing strategies are profound, as the public demands increased transparency and accountability in law enforcement.