US designates two Brazilian gangs as terrorist organisations nationwide

US Designates Two Brazilian Gangs as Terrorist Organizations

The US government has announced its intention to designate two Brazilian gangs, the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and the Comando Vermelho, as “terrorist” organizations. The designations are set to take effect on June 5.

According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the move is aimed at protecting US citizens from the groups’ activities. The PCC and Comando Vermelho are considered two of the largest criminal networks in Brazil.

The designation will block the groups’ access to US assets, including financial institutions and other resources. This measure is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to combat crime and drug trafficking in Latin America.

President Donald Trump has been pushing for stricter measures against these groups, citing concerns about public safety. The move is seen as part of his “Donroe Doctrine”, a policy aimed at expanding US influence in the region.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has expressed concern about the potential impact of the designation on financial institutions and victims of extortion. His main opponent, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, has close ties with the US administration and had petitioned for the designation.

The move is likely to have significant implications for Brazil’s politics, particularly in light of a heated presidential election underway. Recent clashes between law enforcement and criminal groups like the Comando Vermelho have also raised concerns about public safety.

The designations are part of a broader effort by the US government to combat crime and drug trafficking in Latin America. The move is expected to be closely watched by Brazilian authorities and the international community.

Source: Al Jazeera