The mayor of Rio, Eduardo Paes, took to social media to report that he was approached by residents of some streets in Jardim Botânico, South Zone of Rio, who had reportedly been approached by two men interested in providing security for buildings in the region.
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Eduardo Paes also said that all data has already been delivered to the Secretary of Public Order, Brenno Carnevale so that he can make the necessary arrangements and so that measures can be taken.
The Proposal
In the proposal sent to residents, those interested in providing the service offer 24-hour surveillance with four unarmed men, divided into shifts of 12 hours by 36 hours, one during the day and one at night, for twelve months. The Jardim Botânico Neighborhood Association received reports from people who felt threatened by the proposal and is evaluating which authorities to act.
The company belongs to sub-lieutenant Renato Garcia, who also presented himself as director of Disque Denúncia. In the contracts distributed to residents, there is a proposal to pay a minimum wage (R$1,412) for condominiums and R$500 for houses.
The company is active in the Federal Revenue Service and its main economic activity is “monitoring electronic security systems”. To O Globo, the police officer stated that he has been providing services in the region for 16 years and has never extorted or had any relationship with a paramilitary group. He stressed that no armed people were working for him and sent the proposal after requests from residents.
Jardim Botânico Neighborhood
In the streets of Jardim Botânico, South Zone of Rio, it is possible to find several security booths spread throughout the neighborhoods. Some are abandoned, but others have stickers with the names of companies like the one owned by Military Police Sub-lieutenant Renato Garcia. The practice seems to have become popular in the neighborhood. On Rua Benjamin Batista alone, there are at least two booths with guards, who sit on a plastic chair and watch the movement of people in the streets. The company also provides security in other neighborhoods in the South Zone.
Thefts Continue
Residents of the neighborhood, who preferred not to identify themselves, told the newspaper O Globo that the presence of these guards does not inhibit the actions of thieves.
When asked about the legitimacy of the companies, they expressed concern about offering the service due to the militia’s actions.
Analysis:
The legality of services provided by a security firm to Jardim Botânico residents in the South Zone of Rio is under scrutiny by experts. This service, deemed unlawful, is in question even in the absence of weapon usage. The reason is that surveillance falls within the realm of overt policing, a responsibility typically assigned to the Military Police in public spaces. The safeguarding of public assets, including streets, is mandated by the state and municipality. Simply put, the Military Police and/or the Municipal Guard are tasked with preserving the public well-being. In this instance, the offered service is categorized as militia, and these companies are marketing a service that ideally should be delivered by the State.
