Residents of Rua Marquês de Abrantes and its surroundings in Flamengo have raised concerns about the growing number of homeless people in the area. This situation has led to the construction of makeshift shelters, the accumulation of garbage, and the pervasive smell of feces and urine. Another pressing issue is public safety, as residents report feeling threatened by the suspected emergence of a drug-selling point. The Civil Police has announced that the 9th Precinct (Catete) will launch an investigation into these complaints.
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Suspected Formation of a Crack Den
The area of greatest concern is a plastic hut erected in front of the building at number 177. The homeless individual occupying this shelter has been there for over a year and appears to be expanding his space. Recently, there has been increased movement of individuals near the hut, particularly during the early hours, with people arriving briefly and then leaving. Residents suspect this spot has become a hub for drug dealing activities.
Residents Are Afraid
Residents report feeling unsafe walking in the neighborhood, especially after 22:00 when nearby stores close. Although there are no reports of robberies directly linked to these homeless individuals, the presence of crack, cocaine and other drugs raises concerns about potential risks.
Legislative Branch Demands Solutions
Upon learning of the situation, Councilman Pedro Duarte (Novo) addressed the municipal Department of Public Order on Tuesday (17), urging immediate action to address the state of neglect and the suspected formation of a crack den on Marquês de Abrantes Street.
What the Authorities Are Saying
The Military Police stated that the 2nd BPM (Botafogo) allocates resources for preventive policing to deter crimes but did not confirm receiving complaints about robberies or drug use on Marquês de Abrantes Street. Meanwhile, the chief of police at the 9th Precinct admitted he was unaware of any crack den in the area but acknowledged that the proximity to a social hotel has led to a gathering of homeless individuals in the region.
Seizures
The Municipal Department of Public Order noted that it conducts daily operations to organize and clear public spaces, particularly in areas with a concentration of drug users. Since July 2022, approximately 328 knives and sharp objects, two replica firearms, and 224 drug-related items have been seized in Flamengo. This year, 175 knives and sharp objects were confiscated in the same area.
Analysis:
The situation on Rua Marquês de Abrantes, in Flamengo, highlights the direct impact of social and security challenges on urban life. The growing homeless population, combined with suspicions of a drug trafficking hub, has led to a sense of insecurity and the degradation of public spaces, significantly affecting residents’ quality of life. Even in the absence of reports of crimes directly linked to these issues, the perceived risk restricts nighttime mobility and heightens daily discomfort.
The authorities’ response, centered on targeted security actions and the confiscation of dangerous objects, appears insufficient to address the underlying structural problems. Broader measures, such as housing initiatives, drug addiction treatment programs, and community policing, are crucial to rebuilding residents’ trust and restoring dignity to those experiencing homelessness. Without these actions, the cycle of neglect and insecurity will persist, continuing to adversely affect both the population and the neighborhood.
Sources: O Globo.
