On Tuesday, the Public Prosecutor's Office of Rio de Janeiro filed charges against members of the Comando Vermelho, a notorious criminal organization, for their involvement in drug trafficking at prominent tourist locations within Lapa, such as the Arcos da Lapa and the Escadaria Selarón. This action followed extensive investigations conducted by the Special Action Group to Combat Organized Crime (Gaeco), highlighting the ongoing battle against drug-related crimes in one of Rio's most visited neighborhoods.

In a coordinated effort with the police, an operation was executed on the same day to carry out 28 preventive arrest warrants and 11 search-and-seizure warrants related to those charged. Seventeen individuals were apprehended during the police operation, which underscores the urgency and severity of the situation. The warrants were issued by the judiciary at the request of the Public Prosecutor's Office, indicating a strong legal backing for the efforts to curb drug trafficking in these heavily frequented areas.

The investigations revealed that drug trafficking activities were primarily conducted in abandoned mansions and strategic locations within Lapa, notorious for its nightlife and cultural scene. These areas attract a significant number of residents and tourists, raising concerns about public safety and the impact of crime on the local economy. The presence of well-known venues such as Circo Voador and Fundição Progresso adds to the complexity of the issue, as authorities strive to maintain the integrity of Lapa as a vibrant cultural hub while combating organized crime.