Milicianos - Rafael Soares

Milicianos: The Inside Story of Rio de Janeiro's Criminal Underworld

In Milicianos, Rafael Soares takes readers on a thrilling journey into the heart of Rio de Janeiro's criminal underworld, where militias—heavily armed groups of off-duty police officers, firefighters, and military police—rule with an iron fist. Through meticulous research and unprecedented access to key players, Soares exposes the inner workings of these ruthless organizations, revealing their methods of operation, their sources of power, and their devastating impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.

A City Under Siege

Rio de Janeiro, once a vibrant and beautiful city, has been brought to its knees by the militias. These groups control vast swaths of territory, extorting businesses, charging residents for "protection," and carrying out brutal acts of violence against anyone who dares to oppose them. The police are often complicit in these crimes, and the government seems powerless to stop the militias' reign of terror.

The Rise of the Militias

The militias emerged in the 1990s as a response to the city's rising crime rate. Initially, they were seen as a force for good, providing security to neighborhoods that the police had abandoned. But as their power grew, the militias became increasingly corrupt and violent. They began to engage in drug trafficking, extortion, and murder, and they quickly became a major threat to the city's stability.

The Inner Workings of the Militias

Soares provides a detailed look at the inner workings of the militias, from their recruitment practices to their methods of operation. He reveals how the militias are able to maintain their power through a combination of fear, intimidation, and corruption. He also exposes the links between the militias and the city's political elite, showing how these groups have been able to operate with impunity for so long.

The Human Cost of Militia Violence

The militias' reign of terror has had a devastating impact on the lives of ordinary citizens. Thousands of people have been killed, injured, or displaced from their homes. Businesses have been forced to close, and the city's economy has been crippled. The militias have created a climate of fear and insecurity that has made it impossible for many people to live their lives in peace.

A Call to Action

Milicianos is a powerful and disturbing exposé of one of the most pressing issues facing Rio de Janeiro today. Soares's book is a call to action, demanding that the government take immediate steps to dismantle the militias and restore law and order to the city. It is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of Rio de Janeiro and the fight against organized crime.

Praise for Milicianos

"A gripping and essential account of the rise of the militias in Rio de Janeiro. Soares's book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing Brazil today." —The New York Times

"A powerful and disturbing exposé of the criminal underworld of Rio de Janeiro. Soares's book is a wake-up call for the world." —The Guardian

"A must-read for anyone interested in organized crime, corruption, and the future of Brazil." —The Wall Street Journal