During Carnival 2025, both São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro implemented reinforced security measures, leading to a significant reduction in crimes such as theft, robbery, and violent incidents. In São Paulo, a combination of increased policing, facial recognition technology, and drone surveillance contributed to a notable drop in cell phone thefts and robberies. Meanwhile, Rio de Janeiro reported a substantial decrease in various crime indicators, with authorities crediting the success to an expanded police presence and strategic operations.
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São Paulo
The city of São Paulo recorded a decline in cell phone robberies and thefts during Carnival, according to the Public Security Department. A total of 828 robberies were reported, compared to 1,299 in the previous year, while thefts dropped by 24%, from 2,255 in 2024 to 1,700 in 2025.
Enhanced Security Measures
Security efforts were reinforced at street parties by the Military and Civil Police, with officers patrolling in uniform and undercover, including costumed officers blending in with revelers. The city government also increased its security efforts, marking the first Carnival to utilize Smart Sampa facial recognition cameras. Additionally, the Metropolitan Civil Guard (GCM) increased its presence by 30% compared to the previous year.
Use of Drones and Smart Technology
Drones play a crucial role in security monitoring. The Military Police used them to track five suspects who stole a cell phone from a woman at a street party in Barra Funda, in the West Zone. On the ground, the Smart Dog, a robotic “land drone,” assisted the GCM in identifying potential suspects in crowded areas. This technology was deployed at the Anhembi Sambadrome and street parties.
Rio de Janeiro
The Rio de Janeiro government released an assessment of its 2025 Carnival security measures. According to Security Secretary Victor Santos, there was a 64% reduction in robberies targeting pedestrians, as well as significant drops in other crime indicators:
- Violent deaths: 9% decrease
- Street Robberies: 25% decrease
- Vehicle thefts: 33% decrease
- Cargo thefts: 16% decrease
- Thefts from pedestrians: 57% decrease
- Cell phone thefts: 33% decrease
Incident Reports and Law Enforcement Deployment
Civil Police Secretary Felipe Curi reported that 500 incidents were recorded across police stations in the state. He highlighted that police stations operated on a special schedule with reinforced staffing to handle all reported cases efficiently. Meanwhile, the Military Police deployed 12,000 officers as part of the special security scheme throughout the Carnival period.
Analysis:
The significant drop in crime rates during Carnival 2025 in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro highlights the effectiveness of well-planned security strategies in managing large-scale public events. The combination of increased police presence, technological advancements, and strategic planning contributed to the overall security of both residents and visitors. However, while these measures were successful, it is essential to assess their long-term sustainability and potential areas for improvement.
In São Paulo, the integration of facial recognition technology and drone surveillance played a crucial role in crime prevention and suspect identification. The use of costumed officers and an increased police presence also proved effective in deterring criminal activity.
Rio de Janeiro’s results were even more striking, with significant reductions in street robberies, violent deaths, and vehicle thefts. This suggests the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies. However, the high number of recorded incidents—500 cases reported to police stations—indicates that crime remains a persistent challenge despite the positive trends.
