English 
Spanish 
6 min read 
0 comments 
Criminal faction imposes severe restrictions on app drivers, directly affecting mobility and security in the region
O Red Command, one of the most influential criminal factions in the Rio de Janeiro, imposed severe restrictions on access to application drivers in the city's favelas, generating concern not only among professionals in the field, but also among residents who depend on these services. This measure prohibits the entry of drivers who use platforms such as Uber e 99, except for vehicles belonging to a cooperative controlled by drug traffickers. The restrictions were communicated through graffiti on walls, highlighting the territorial control exercised by the faction in the communities.
The context of restriction
The slums of Rio de Janeiro face a complex scenario of violence and control by criminal gangs, which often impose their own rules on the communities. These restrictions have a significant impact on the daily lives of residents, who often depend on ride-hailing drivers to get around safely. In many areas, the presence of militias and gangs such as Comando Vermelho has created a climate of fear, and the bans on services such as Uber and 99 are an extension of this control.
Historically, Rio’s favelas have been plagued by gang conflicts and the presence of police forces, which often fail to provide the necessary security. The ban imposed by Comando Vermelho represents an escalation in the struggle for territorial control and an attempt to establish a monopoly over transportation services in the region.
- Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 could arrive in Brazil in 2026 with 40 hp engine and liquid cooling
- The most powerful version of the Yaris, the 280 hp GR, is on Toyota's radar for the Brazilian market in the coming years
- Chevrolet Spark EUV arrives in Brazil with autonomy of up to 400 km and an estimated price of R$ 130 thousand
- Allies complain, and Tarcísio backs down from plan to increase tolls in São Paulo
Impacts of restrictions on urban mobility
The ban on entering the favelas directly affects people's ability to work. application drivers. For many, freedom of movement is essential to guarantee income, and the restrictions imposed by Comando Vermelho generate insecurity and fear.
This situation not only limits transportation options for residents, but also harms the local economy.
A lack of reliable transportation services can lead to higher ride prices as the supply of available drivers dwindles.
Additionally, many drivers who used to operate in these areas may be forced to give up their activities or change locations to work, which impacts their ability to support their families.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that drivers who disregard orders may face violent reprisals, creating an environment of tension and fear.
Reaction of authorities and the community
The Military Police of Rio de Janeiro is aware of the situation and has stepped up its operations to combat crime in the region. The command of 21th Military Police Battalion, responsible for St. Johns Wood, is conducting investigations into the restrictions imposed on drivers.
The corporation emphasizes the importance of the population's collaboration, encouraging the official reporting of complaints to help combat these criminal practices.
This approach aims to restore safety and freedom of movement for app drivers and the general population.
Police frequently conduct operations in favelas to dismantle drug dealing points and arrest gang leaders. However, the effectiveness of these operations is often questioned, as they often result in violent confrontations, putting the lives of residents and police officers at risk.
The lack of a comprehensive strategy to deal with crime in the favelas makes the situation even more complicated.
The position of app companies
A Brazilian Mobility and Technology Association, which represents companies such as 99, is closely monitoring reports of access restrictions in some areas of the Rio de Janeiro.
The entity expressed support for public authority initiatives aimed at curbing violence and guaranteeing citizens' freedom of choice in relation to transport services.
The concern is that violence and access restrictions affect not only drivers, but also the population that depends on these services to get around.
A Uber, in turn, expressed its regret for the situation affecting citizens who simply want to work or travel. The company reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of drivers and passengers, regretting the threat of violence that permeates society.
In response to this situation, Uber and other transportation companies have sought to engage in dialogue with authorities and the community to find solutions that guarantee the safety of their drivers.
Challenges faced by app drivers
Ride-hailing drivers are facing significant challenges due to new restrictions imposed by Comando Vermelho.
The ban on entering certain areas not only limits their operations, but also impacts the local economy and urban mobility.
With the difficulty in accessing favelas, many drivers may find themselves forced to increase their fares or even give up working in affected areas, which further harms the population that depends on these services.
Furthermore, the insecurity generated by the actions of criminal factions has a significant psychological impact on drivers.
Many report feeling threatened and insecure, which can affect their performance and willingness to work.
This situation leads to growing tension in communities, where fear of reprisals and lack of protection increase drivers’ vulnerability.
The fight for safety and freedom of movement
The territorial control exercised by criminal factions, such as Comando Vermelho, highlights the urgent need for solutions that guarantee safety and freedom of movement for both drivers and users of transportation apps.
The current situation highlights the fragility of the urban transport system in the affected areas and the importance of a joint effort between the police, app companies and the community to tackle crime.
It is essential that authorities develop effective strategies to dismantle criminal factions and restore security in the favelas.
This may include implementing community support programs that provide economic and social alternatives for residents, thereby reducing dependence on drug trafficking and crime.
Restrictions on Uber and 99
The ban imposed by the Red Command to the activities of application drivers , the Uber e 99 in the slums of Rio de Janeiro It is a clear demonstration of the territorial control exercised by criminal factions in the region.
The situation not only harms mobility and the local economy, but also puts the safety of drivers and passengers at risk.
Collaboration between authorities, transport companies and the community is essential to reverse this reality and restore freedom of movement and safety for all.
The fight against crime in Rio de Janeiro's favelas is complex and challenging, but it is essential to ensuring a safe and fair environment for all citizens.
The future of communities dependent on transportation services such as Uber and 99 is at stake, and only through a joint effort will it be possible to overcome the challenges imposed by violence and territorial control.
SOURCE: OANTAGONISTA
