View Full Version : Rio de Janeiro - Crime & Safety
I enjoy smoking from last 15 years, actually I am a light smoker and I really never thought seriously to quit but last time in Rio, where everytime and really everywhere I had cigarette I had somebody come to me to ask me one cigarette.
I said no 99% of time and funny enough the only ones who get pissed off I did not offer a cigarette were the girls in Help or sitting at Terraco Atlantico.
If I had to give one to everybody who asked me, I could easily finish my box in early afternoon. At the end I learned to hide the cigarette inside my hand even if it was a joint till when 2 cops on avenida atlantica watched to me probably thinking, this gringo is gonna to smoke drugs in front of us :)
Yes, maybe time to quit...
I enjoy smoking from last 15 years, actually I am a light smoker and I really never thought seriously to quit but last time in Rio, where everytime and really everywhere I had cigarette I had somebody come to me to ask me one cigarette.
I said no 99% of time and funny enough the only ones who get pissed off I did not offer a cigarette were the girls in Help or sitting at Terraco Atlantico.
If I had to give one to everybody who asked me, I could easily finish my box in early afternoon. At the end I learned to hide the cigarette inside my hand even if it was a joint till when 2 cops on avenida atlantica watched to me probably thinking, this gringo is gonna to smoke drugs in front of us :)
Yes, maybe time to quit...Yes im partial to the odd nicotine fix more so in Rio as its 6 times less expensive for a packet of cigs than UK! But anywhere in Copa you forget to put either your lighter or cigrettes back in your pocket its a gaurentee within seconds someone from somewhere is going to appear and want one on them! I havent done this for a while but was funny at the time a GDP told me to buy a second pack of these real horrible real ruff like $1R a pack cigarettes and everytime i got asked for one i would say 'sim nao problemo'.
But yeah keep them in your pocket it just another thing that can be possible problems if frustration levels are maxing out after the multiple 'refusal often offends' and you react to some skanks nonsense.
The laugh of it is most of them dont even smoke they take few puffs and put out then go ask someone else for one...just want something, anything from you..
And a couple more suggest from Christopherd too. Yes, please add some more stuff about apartment safety that I will link here, I am sure I am not the only one interested to read it. Thanks to you too as well.
http://www.InternationalSexGuide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=936297&postcount=1005
I think the only things I'd add to my previous post have mostly been said already, by me or others, or are just common sense. There's probably not universal agreement on some things, or they only apply if, like myself, you look for new apartments in person rather than booking ahead.
Here's a few ideas for what they're worth.
Entrance security
You may well find that, if you try the different channels on your TV, one will show the lobby where people enter the building. If you figure out how to switch quickly to it, you can check the visual ID of someone arriving to see you. Hopefully the door staff will phone up when someone arrives before sending them up. (see below).
Leaving the apartment
It doesn't hurt to check the spyhole before opening the door and then glancing either way up and down the corridor before exiting. Double lock the door except for very short trips of a few minutes.
Doormen
These are the security staff checking people as they enter the building. They vary enormously in attitude and helpfulness. As do your relations with them. My usual instruction is not to allow any visitors unless I specifically ok them on any particular visit. Quite apart from criminals, this is to deter persistent garotas who I only wanted to see once. There is nothing more annoying than sessioning with one girl and have last night's drunken girl arrive, banging on the door and calling you names. If you've arranged for someone to call, give the doorman advance notice so he expects her. This trains him to know that is what you always do (if you do).
** * Some doormen are very upright and decent. These fall into two categories, but the biggest of the two is probably the 'prostitutes and those that use them are scum' branch. They will not openly admit this to you. They'll be very charming. You have to use this to ensure they respect your rights even if they look down on you (for instance, about letting unwanted women up to see you). They are paid buttons. Most are in the job for a long time. Their day to day contacts are the longterm residents in the apartment, the people they want to bond with. You are transient and not one of the 'respectable' set. As an illustration, you will probably see a marked change of attitude, body language etc if you don't take anyone back for a week then come home with your first GDP. There's your streetcred floating out the door like a used condom, a used and discarded greasy salgadinho napkin.
** * Upright and decent but a little less partisan are some doormen that accept the variety of life in all it's richness. The Apart-hotel staff for instance didn't seem to give a dogshit about different codes of decent behaviour. They checked GDPs ID cards and even helped mediate when I had a dupla argument. They are probably less influenced by residents' cliques and very forthcoming, but it is the sort of help you can ask for and reasonably expect of the majority of apartment doorstaff.
** * Another category of doorstaff are those that have succumbed to being 'lowlife' and welcome your mongering habits with open arms. They tend to severely [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) off other, longterm residents, seeing all manner of impropriety where there is none. But some just accept they work in a hooker-hole area like Prado Jnr and will look out for you. This can be an advantage when you are wandering around with a beer late at night (not that you should, but I do) and might need rapid entrance as some maladros take too much interest in you. These sorts of door staff I maybe buy a sixpack of beer for occasionally, or a cheap hamburger at a few reals from the night streetseller.*
** * Finally you get door staff who just hate life and take no interest in anything unless they are forced to. They will barely say hello, and asking them to do their job reasonably to your satisfaction is like asking a shoeshine boy if he reads the Wall Street Journal.
** * Bear in mind there will be quite a few different staff on any one rota.
Scoping apartments
A lot of people on here will go for upmarket apartments with reasonable doorstaff, room safes and do on. Which is great. But it can make you think safety is something you've paid for and can expect rather than keeping your wits about you. It's not likely to happen, but if you were threatened by a GDP with a weapon in your apartment, or worse, taken on the street and frogmarched back to your apartment to hand over all your cash and cards, what are you going to do? (Both scenarios happen, even if thankfully not too often). Having said that, room safes are a very convenient luxury. Especially if they work haha.
** * A hobby of mine is imagining every worst case scenario and asking myself how I'd get out of it.
** * If you either travel light (convertible rucksack) or use the ploy of staying at a hotel for one night so you can view and choose an apartment at leisure, there's plenty you can do to include security on your list (I think I posted a full 'apartment checklist' some while back). If you are booking in advance, I think there is only so much you can reasonably expect an agent to confirm in terms of checklist security. 'Reasonableness' has a somewhat different meaning in Brasil to what us reasonable back home. Like it or not, it's their rules that rule.
** * Questions to ask yourself when walking round apartments before choosing (carry a pen and paper when apartment hunting). Does the door have double-bolt security locks? A security chain? A spyhole you can see through? Or see SFA through? What's the passageway like? What are your impressions of the doorstaff? Does the apartment have places you can hide stuff from casual theft / determined theft? (I particularly like high level wardrobe cupboards that I can reach, being tall, but would be harder for some people). Does any of the furniture lock? Can you put a case or rucksack under the bed? Attach it to the bed by a locking security cable? Rucksacks with many locks are excellent. Mine has a false bottom. If you have one with a detachable daypack, that is great for day to day items, leaving your main one locked. If not, buy a daypack locally, and remember to wear it local-style on your chest in unsure areas / Copa, instead on your back the usual way. What about the bathroom? Does it have a lock? (I prefer one without - if she's gone too long I want to be able to see if she's snorting up, especially without offering to share, maybe leaving incriminating traces in my bathroom.) I leave the bathroom door ajar sometimes when I'm showering, but generally like my apartment so secure I can leave her unattended and know she can't steal anything. I like somewhere to put my toilet bag though. I'm not leaving my duty free after shave in there for her to use up as body spray. What about the mattress? Can I lift it easily to pop my wallet-containing jeans there as I come home drunk with an overnighter (not that you should get drunk of course lol). Also consider the apartment layout. If there's lots of rooms, you can't keep an eye on them all at once. Is the apartment in an area that will be brightly lit / busy / respectable at night? It's nice not to have to skulk through dark, uninhabited streets just to get home *Finally, remember that sessioning with a GDP from the same apartment block you're staying in is tempting but she will also be on your doorstep without being screened by security.
Hope that helps.
Chris made a perfect post as usual. I just want to add something regarding porteiros.
* Treat the porteiros nice! In the buildings where I rent apartments (Rio and other cities) I've seen other gringos treating the porteiros like shit telling them to f**k of. Sometimes because the porteiro told them to use the service entrance when coming from the beach or when there have been complaints about noise. It's not wise to get unfriendly with your porteiro.
* As I usually rent the same apartments every year I know "my" porteiros very well. We always chat and they are very helpful. It doesn't matter if I need assistance with fixing something in the apartment or need some assistance with troublesome GPs. They are there for me. They don't send up a girl to my apartment when they know I already have one upstairs. Other gringos in the building have the hassle to register their visits, I don't (I know it's for my safety as well, but I don't feel the need).
* Gifts. I never give money to a porteiro. Neither do I bring presents from back home (only to the síndico in the building). What I do is, every now and then sneak them a beer or a refri. When I leave, I make sure to give them all the food, beers and beach-chairs etc. They really appreciate it.
Treat them well and with respect and you'll get rewarded.
As always, very helpful posts Chris, Sperto and EA.
Since some have mentioned of arrastaos into high end restaurants, luxury condos I am wondering how safe are the major hotels in Copa/Ipa/Leblon? Has there been an arrastao in one of the major hotels? Do these hotels have their private security staff on premises to cope with such situations or what?
I'd be very interested in seeing what those in the know or the long timers/experts have to say about this.
The Watcher
10-04-09, 23:17
* Gifts. I never give money to a porteiro.
Why don't you give them money? I want to know in order to decide if I need to change my routine. I rarely stay in the same apartment so I usually have different porteiros on each visit. I, however, do give a little tip (20 Reais a week) to the porteiro on each shift as token of my appreciation. I do this when I leave - it might be a good idea to give it when I arrive. I welcome any advice that you might have.
I add one more question, to which one you give money or drink ? Cause where I stayed there were 3 different doormen.
P.S. next time I give something, but on first or second day, cause if you give when you leave, who knows if you will stay at same apt and if there will be the same doorman next time ?
Exec Talent
10-05-09, 01:07
Why don't you give them money? I want to know in order to decide if I need to change my routine. I rarely stay in the same apartment so I usually have different porteiros on each visit. I, however, do give a little tip (20 Reais a week) to the porteiro on each shift as token of my appreciation. I do this when I leave - it might be a good idea to give it when I arrive. I welcome any advice that you might have.
I make it a point of befriending the porteiros, hotel clerks and doormen. I do the same wherever I travel. I ask their names and use them when I enter and leave. If they help me with my bags, I give them a little something and also when I am leaving the apartment or hotel for good. If I am going out for a burger, let's say at McDonalds I will ask if they would like anything. If I am buying beer for the fridge, I will offer them one on the way past.
Keep in mind that for many of these people this is a lifetime job. If you come often to Rio, they will still be there at the same place the next time and the next time. With some of them, I even have gotten to know their wives, kids and friends. They know everything that goes on in the building and often the surrounding area. Treating them with respect is not only the right thing to do, but also will go a long way to assuring that you will have a pleasant stay in Rio.
Report also notes that Copacabana is dangerous.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/33165310#33165310
It's not likely to happen, but if you were threatened by a GDP with a weapon in your apartment, or worse, taken on the street and frogmarched back to your apartment to hand over all your cash and cards, what are you going to do?.Do you have an answer for these scenarios?
I'm all ears.
Why don't you give them money? I want to know in order to decide if I need to change my routine.
Why should I give money as a tip to a friend? Americans and europeans might have different tipping habits?
I add one more question, to which one you give money or drink ?
If I stay in Rio for more than one month they all get their share.
Do you have an answer for these scenarios?
I'm all ears.
Not particularly. But I don't usually have a room safe. If such a harrowing situation occurs, there is some hope that some stash will be found but that a main stash will not be (I'm not for one minute suggesting don't use room safes, just saying don't ever think you have some holy magic protection.)
Your best bets are maybe talking your way out of it (as in the non-fiction book, A Death in Brazil) or hoping something won't be found. But of course, at that stage they might search your apto to the last inch. In one case, the victim was taken to the bank to withdraw all their cash.
The point of the post was to encourage a sense of street smarts perhaps. Not getting into the situation in the first place, developing a sixth sense for who is 'dodgy.' Thinking thru every possibility, taking every possible precaution that you reasonably can in the situation you find yourself, then, knowing you've done that, relax and remember that the majority of people are good and decent.
Why don't you give them money? I want to know in order to decide if I need to change my routine. I rarely stay in the same apartment so I usually have different porteiros on each visit. I, however, do give a little tip (20 Reais a week) to the porteiro on each shift as token of my appreciation. I do this when I leave - it might be a good idea to give it when I arrive. I welcome any advice that you might have.
If I can maybe add a story - one night I'm chatting briefly to the night porter on the block opposite Bar Prado where I'm staying (couple of years ago). He's a good guy and is quick to open the door for me if I ever need to beat a hasty retreat from the nutters drinking on Prado Jnr. I ask if I can get him anything - a beer perhaps? He mentions the burger stand on the corner with Castro. He even wants to give me the money (self-respect, I think). It's a burger stand that's so cheap and shitty it would be in a gringo's natural blind spot. But he was really grateful for that burger. He couldn't get off duty and had maybe been dreaming about it. The way you do when you're stuck in one place.
I've tried a more routine approach (six-packs of beer) but it really varies so much on the people. I try now to make a connection and see what might be appreciated. I don't want to be that rich 'scummy' monger who patronisingly helps out the 'poor disadvantaged worker.' It needs to be mutual respect, not a mutual looking down. Failing that, a cheery but gently spoken Boa Noite, eye contact and a smile, are better than nothing.
I learn a lot about manners from Brasilians. Our manners in the West is far too codified IMO. Ritualistic rather than meaningful. Satisfying convention rather than seeing it from the other human being's viewpoint. I'm still learning. It's one of the reasons I go back. As opposed to other mongering destinations.
Exec Talent
10-05-09, 13:00
I learn a lot about manners from Brasilians. Our manners in the West is far too codified IMO. Ritualistic rather than meaningful. Satisfying convention rather than seeing it from the other human being's viewpoint. I'm still learning. It's one of the reasons I go back. As opposed to other mongering destinations.
Incredible insight. And, free, right here, no need to buy a book. When I am in the US, I spend most of my free time with Brazilians (same as I do when in Brazil). I have found investing in Brazil very rewarding but there is much more. Hopefully hosting the World Cup and Olympics will give the opportunity feel what Christopherd has found.
El Austriaco
10-06-09, 18:29
Report also notes that Copacabana is dangerous.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/33165310#33165310
Well, just your typical report about favela tours. Like always, it seems more an advertorial for Marcelo Armstrong's outfit than a piece of actual investigative journalism.
A few notes:
1) Out of the 750 favelas in Rio (according to the video), favela tours are only conducted in a few: Marcelo goes to Rocinha and a smaller one in São Conrado (Vila Canoas), and the images at 0:20, 0:42 (Rocinha) and 03:46 (Vila Canoas) were apparently taken during this tour. I have heard of another favela tour which, I believe, goes to some in Copacabana (possibly Babilonia). To think that these favelas are anything representative of the vast majorities of favelas in Zona Norte and the Baixada Fluminese, which include some of the most notorious hot spots for crime in Rio, is just plain stupid.
2) The statement by the gringo at 2:10, according to which "It is as safe as you feel in a gated community (interjection by the gringa: SAFER!!!) in a subdivision outside of New York City" is downright irresponsible for me. Unless, of course, there are gated communities outside of NYC that are run by notorious drug gangs that are occasionally raided by rival gangs and/or the police or where the real-estate developers routinely execute anyone that somehow interferes with their business.
3) The guy at 3:10, who is planning on building bed-and-breakfast joints for tourists to stay at, is obviously in Vidigal, right next to Rocinha, also in Zona Sul. According to him, "In Copacabana, you have to confront crime, you have to confront dirt, a lot of noise and traffic, a lot of other problems you don't confront here (i.e. in a favela)". Well, well, well. I won't even comment on the obvious discrepancy with the earlier statement of the gringa living there, who states that trash disposal is the biggest problem, so I can't really imagine it's anything cleaner that Copacabana. I won't say anything about noise and traffic in a place where "nobody sleeps". But how about that: at least, you won't get shot just trying to go enter Copacabana, while this is a very real possibility when wandering into a favela without apparent reason. Quite a steep price to pay for paying much less than staying in Copacabana, I think.
4) The gringa, Erica Robb, says "I don't think the attraction is only about poverty... the attraction is more about violence". So if it's really so safe to stay there, without any robberies at all, with nothing happening... if crime's the real attraction, wouldn't it be better to stay in Copacabana where, as claimed, there is so much more crime???? Now what is it, Erica?
In sum: just the typical sanitized "Robin Hood" romantizicing of the drug lords that I experienced myself on Marcelo's tour. My report dating back to 2006:
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=450535&postcount=676
Pictures:
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=471570&postcount=1161
Conclusion: taking a favela tour is one thing, living in a favela is quite something different. Personally, I think shoddy journalism as displayed in this video, which amounts to little more than a platform for the self-serving interests of favela tour operators and press releases by the drug gangs, might quite possibly be dangerous for newbies to Rio as it creates the impression that ALL favelas are not only places like anywhere else, but actually better. They are not.
Very Marcelo Armstrong, yes. But he's well established and the tour is carefully rigged to impress you with the contrast of known bogey men and the shock of walking around safely in a main street in Rocina lol.
There's actually lots of guest houses and maybe a youth hostel or two in favelas in equally safety-rigged zones where everybody gets cuts and security is guaranteed and yes, those pockets probably are safer than Copa. And you can go to a favela with local friends from the favela (preferably not a garota) or a samba school* and you are quite safe. But there's big differences between these nice safe pockets (where you pay thru the nose and about the same for a b&b as you would in Copa if you know the local owner - ie about $30) and areas that are a million miles from anything resembling safe, especially if you just decided to wander in on your own.
There's also 'voluntary work' holidays you can go on, pay a fortune for, stay in a shithole, and have a nice warm fuzzy feeling that maybe 1% (you assume vastly more) of what you paid is going to help the community as you lay a few bricks or whatever. Even Marcelo makes a big thing about the need for 'volunteers' - until you volunteer (I tried it once - he turned obnoxious rather quickly).
Favelas (nice, tidy, well-connected, well paid-off bits) are business for those taking advantage of the tourists.
It reminds me of a scam in Cambodia. A tour guide hanging out near a monastery asks if you want to do some local work to help villagers learn to read and write. You contribute something that seems minuscule to cover food. He makes all the arrangements. You come away with a nice halo and tell other tourists about the good work you've been doing. But the food cost practically zero. Most of the money went in the operator's pocket. The villagers are paid a small sum to play along and pretend to learn.
*Actually one way you can help is to contribute something discretely - for instance by buying stuff - from a school that is well-known for its community projects. Beija-Flor is one such, even if controversial. Not that their beat is technically a favela but it's splitting hairs as I say so.
I've never been on a favela tour. A dozen of red-burnt gringos with big sun-hats holding on to a giant waterbottle in one hand and hi-tech camera equipment in the other hand. All clustered together in a open army-jeep. Tropa de Gringos on a safary trip... Not my cup of tea.
I've visited many favelas in different parts of Brazil. Normally to visit somebody living there, heading to a baille do funk or sometimes to do some shopping (not drugs, but funk proibido or the latest pirata movies). Favelas are all different. Some are very calm and some others are extremely dangerous. Only a fool would enter alone in one of the dangerous favelas that are involved in a war with the police or another favela-gang.
I guess the favela tours fills a good purpose. They bring some income to the community and also shows that the typical image of a Rio-favela being a war-zone isn't always true.
Many gringos, even those living in Rio, have a very twisted image of the favelas. "Only scum and bandits lives in the favelas." Of course that is false. The scum and bandits exist, but the majority are just ordinary people. The same people that cleans your hotel room, drives the taxi, work the cashier at the supermarket or sell you beer on the beach.
About the video-link posted below, I agree with the comments made by EA and Chris.
Rocinha being a safe place? Maybe the tours gives this impression, but if you head further up in Rocinha armed bandits will make you go back quickly.
I don't want anybody to blame me for getting mugged, therefore I don't recommend anybody to wander of in any favela by their own. Go there with somebody who lives there.
Assaulting entire apartment buildings, now this? Is it me or are Rio's crooks getting more bold?
A military police booth located in Botafogo, was attacked Monday night at 11:30p. Police said two robbers held up the lone cop on duty and stole his Taurus .40 pistol.
The cop, who was not named, was overpowered when he left the booth, which is in front of Botafogo Praia Shopping. One of the robbers put a gun to the cop's head, while the other stole the gun. A third robber was inside the car acting as a lookout. After the assault, which lasted a few minutes, witnesses said the robbers fled in a black Peugeot toward the Zona Sul. The officer was not hurt.
Moments before the assault, a civil police officer had his car stolen by two thugs on a motorcycle, at Rua Minister Raul Fernandes, also in Botafogo. Police are investigating the possibility of a link between the two crimes.
Olympics! Here we come!!
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2009/10/13/cabine-da-pm-assaltada-em-botafogo-768030561.asp
Poucolouco
10-13-09, 21:46
A military police booth located in Botafogo, was attacked Monday night at 11:30p.
Assaulting entire apartment buildings, now this? Is it me or are Rio's crooks getting more bold?
Or are the police tactics getting more stupid? Stationing a lone officer anywhere at that hour without backup seems like the Policiais do 2º BPM haven't learned by their mistakes. That same booth was assaulted in 2006 by 5 gunmen. In an exchange of gunfire, a lone police officer was hit and a pedestrian was killed by a stray bullet.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091017/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/lt_brazil_violence
Exec Talent
10-17-09, 21:49
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091017/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/lt_brazil_violence
My friends in Rio tell me that there are mini-territorial-wars going on in the north zone these days.
Greetings everyone,
In recognition of his many great contributions to the Forum, I have given Quincas his own thread titled "Quincas in Brazil".
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?t=3095
Those of you who wish to join him in the discussions in his new thread are welcome to do so.
I've also moved all of his previous "contributions" to this new thread, creating a sort of "The Collected Works of Quincasl"" for those of you who are interested.
Thanks,
Jackson
From reading Oglobo, it was a Hot Afternoon yesterday, (Tuesday 12/01,) in Copacabana. Bus Burning HOT!! Seems some of the residents of the two favelas surrounding Copa, (Pavão-Pavãozinho and Cantagalo,) have taken exception to the Police Occupation of their community.
You know that mirrored building next door to Mab's? (Edifício Comercial Business Center.) A couple of guys on a Motorcycle threw a homemade bomb at it. No one was hurt. And the police was able to capture the bad guys for a change. Even manage to shot one in the ass! This happened around 3p.
At about the same time, Bob's on Ave Atlantica and Rua Djalma Ulrich, was held up, possibly by a local drug lord armed with a Grenade, attempting to evade capture. He got away with $R500.
Around 6:30p, a Viação Real # 121 bus, (Central-Copacabana,) was set on fire while stopped and vacant on Ave Nossa Senhora de Copacabana, between Ruas Rainha Elizabeth e Joaquim Nabuco, (posto 6.) An adult and 2 juveniles were arrested.
Rio Governor Sérgio Cabral stated they knew the local drug lords would react in some way to the police occupation. Seems to me, he was more upset by the off hand comment made by Robin Williams on David Letterman: "Rio won the Olympics because they sent 50 strippers and a pound of blow."
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2009/12/01/traficantes-incendeiam-onibus-em-copacabana-em-reacao-instalacao-de-upp-no-cantagalo-pavao-pavaozinho-915004653.asp
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2009/12/01/bandidos-explodem-bomba-caseira-na-avenida-princesa-isabel-em-copacabana-915000622.asp
http://odia.terra.com.br/portal/rio/html/2009/12/trafico_reage_a_paz_e_queima_onibus_em_copacabana_50272.html
They like to burn buses in Rio. Another one was attacked again at 3:30p in Copa today. It was the # 455 bus, (Méier- Copacabana,) this time. It happened on the corner of Rua Raul Pompéia and Joaquim Nabuco. Two guys on a motorcycle threw a homemade bomb filled with nails at it. Luckily no one was hurt. Only the driver was aboard.
I fear these attacks will continue in Copa.
http://odia.terra.com.br/portal/rio/html/2009/12/bomba_de_fabricacao_caseira_e_jogada_contra_onibus_em_copacabana_50433.html
Yesterday's bus fire and More Photos at:
http://odia.terra.com.br/portal/galerias/geradas/O_DIA_ONLINE_onibus_incendiado_em_copacabana_713.html
They like to burn buses in Rio. Another one was attacked again at 3:30p in Copa today. It was the # 455 bus, (Méier- Copacabana,) this time. It happened on the corner of Rua Raul Pompéia and Joaquim Nabuco. Two guys on a motorcycle threw a homemade bomb filled with nails at it. Luckily no one was hurt. Only the driver was aboard.
I fear these attacks will continue in Copa.
http://odia.terra.com.br/portal/rio/html/2009/12/bomba_de_fabricacao_caseira_e_jogada_contra_onibus_em_copacabana_50433.html
Yesterday's bus fire and More Photos at:
http://odia.terra.com.br/portal/galerias/geradas/O_DIA_ONLINE_onibus_incendiado_em_copacabana_713.html
Preparation work for the Olympics? so that at some point somebody will say "we can take care that nothing like this happens again if you hire our 'security services'....?
Poucolouco
12-03-09, 02:02
Preparation work for the Olympics? so that at some point somebody will say "we can take care that nothing like this happens again if you hire our 'security services'....?
Sounds like a perfect opening for Erik Prince and his Xe Services (formerly Blackwater.) These ratos from the favela are scumbag bottom rungers sent by the trafficants. They are disrupting the small businesses where their own neighbors work. They are nothing but urban terrorists and should be dealt with as such. I hope the policia can clean up these dirtbags without taking prisoners.
Rock Harders
12-03-09, 03:36
Mongers-
These recent bus bombings and other similar attacks really begs the question of what exactly is the city, state and federal governments of Rio de Janeiro and Brasil going to do about the humongous socio-economic problem that is the favelas. There is no easy solution to this issue but obviously at some point if Rio de Janeiro wants to be a (somewhat) first world city worthy and capable of hosting the olympics the favelas will have to be dismantled and alternative public housing with a government security presence will have to be built on the periphery of the city. There is going to be some major league growing and readjustment pains going on in Rio de Janeiro over the next several years.
Sorte,
Rock Harders
Bombs... that's bad. Bus 455 is the "Copa-Vila Mimosa" bus.
I think it's good that the police invades Cantagalo, Pavão-Pavãozinho and maybe establish a mini-batalhão inside the favela. Good for the people who lives inside the communidade.
It would help if the governement were allowed to use the army as well. I think that's not really allowed? I remember they did use the army (tanks, choppers etc) in some favelas in Zona Sul back in 1994. It was effective.
Bombs... that's bad. Bus 455 is the "Copa-Vila Mimosa" bus.
I think it's good that the police invades Cantagalo, Pavão-Pavãozinho and maybe establish a mini-batalhão inside the favela. Good for the people who lives inside the communidade.
It would help if the governement were allowed to use the army as well. I think that's not really allowed? I remember they did use the army (tanks, choppers etc) in some favelas in Zona Sul back in 1994. It was effective.\
A homemade grenade was exploded at the corner of Princesa isabel and Av, Atlantica as well as the bus burning. Tabajaras and Morro do Cabrito are next on the schedule for police actions, which usualy cause these reactions. Borel, morro dos macacos and turano have a turf war going on as well as occasional alemao and mare flare ups, most stated in the wake of the dismantling of the milicias, creating a power vacum and gangs fighting to take over the area.
Hopefully, copacabana will not become unlivable in this process, since the druglords must move elsewhere, they end up trying to take over another comunidade and cause a turf war in the process or take to other types of criminal actions, such as invading and robing residential apartments, as they did recently. It appears that the World Cup and Olimpics clean up operations have begun to intensify. Newscast just announced that they will hire Ruddy Guiliano and his staff as security advisors for the city.
Aren't we going a bit OTT here guys? One - or maybe two - buses get blown up in a city the size of a small galaxy and we wonder if it will become unlivable??
It reminds me of when no-one would go to Northern Ireland during the Troubles, thinking it was far too dangerous. Was it heck. We're talking about relatively isolated incidents, not all out nuclear war. Or even Afghanistan.
Stay cool. Enjoy your cerveja. And look both ways before you cross the road. Be very careful about visiting the US - they have shoot-outs in schools. And careful about Europe - they murder people for making fun of Allah and then let suspected terrorists go back to Libya.
At least Brasililans remember how to laugh. They remind me what it is to be human sometimes . . . :)
First the two english girls and now an american tourist arrested.
The american went to the tourist police to report the theft of his luggage, worth R$ 30000. His story didn't hold and the police discovered it was all a lie.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2009/12/21/americano-preso-ao-tentar-aplicar-golpe-do-seguro-915305750.asp
http://extra.globo.com/geral/casodepolicia/post.asp?t=turista-americano-preso-tentando-dar-golpe-de-30-mil-no-seguro&cod_post=251798
He got himself a nice picture in the paper.
Maybe he can finish his Dan Brown book in the cell?
Fake theft reports from gringos are bad for the statistics. Rio doesn't need that with the World Cup and the Olympics around the corner. Throw the lying gringos in a cell and then kick them out of the country.
P.S It's fun reading the commentaries on the articles.
Giuliani, who unsuccessfully sought the Republican presidential nomination in 2008, said he would endorse Republican Rick Lazio for New York governor.
The former mayor said he wanted to focus on his consulting business, Giuliani Partners, which has won a contract in Rio de Janeiro to improve security there ahead of the 2012 Olympics.
Brazil has hired Rudy Giuliani to clean Rio up for the Olympics. Rudy really cleaned up New York, he did an amazing job but it wasn't as much fun anymore. A few places I like to hit in NY had closed because of his policies. While he did a good job, he went too far.
If he does the same thing in Rio, expect big changes, closing Help would just be the first of many things he will clean up. That's the way he does it, he starts with the little things first like littering then moves up and takes the big things out next.
http://www.brazzilmag.com/content/view/11507/1/
http://ny1.com/5-manhattan-news-content/news_beats/politics/109944/giuliani-to-provide-security-consulting-for-rio-olympics/
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-1236888/Rio-Janeiro-crackdown-bring-order-beaches-World-Cup-Olympic-Games.html
All you tough guys take heed, bad ass black belt killed: :(
"Brazilian Trainer Marco Jara Murdered
Saturday, December 26, 2009
MMA trainer Marco Jara was found murdered from three gunshots Thursday in Santa Cruz, a suburb of Rio de Janeiro, according to a report from Redo Globo TV.
Jara, who trained the likes of Marco Ruas and Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic, was heading with a friend to Parati, a city two hours outside Rio, to spend the holidays. Jara, 39, reportedly stopped his Land Rover to retrieve something from the trunk, and the vehicle was robbed by two men.
Jara reacted to the armed men, but could not get the gun, said Rio police. Jara’s friend was shot and thrown out of the car, while Jara was kidnapped by the gunmen. Jara’s body was found two hours later in his car, which was parked in front of the dangerous Favela do Sapo slum. Jara’s friend is in a local hospital recovering.
Jara’s full name was Marcos Adriano Albuquerque. He lived in Los Angeles for nearly 20 years and was instrumental along with Federico Lapenda in bringing vale tudo great Marco Ruas to the UFC in 1995. IVC promoter Sergio Batarelli named Jara among the best MMA trainers in the world. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt was one of the trainers responsible in assisting Croatian striker Cro Cop’s transition from K-1 to MMA. Jara was also said to have been hired by K-1 to train Mike Tyson for MMA.
Jara’s student Brett Cooper earned a second-round knockout against Sergio Moraes at Jungle Fight 15 last October in Rio."
http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Brazilian-Trainer-Marco-Jara-Murdered-21730
Another version of the events:
"Black belt Marco Jara fatally shot in Rio:
Joe Moreira Jiu-Jitsu black belt Marcos Adriano Albuquerque, better known as Marco Jara, is yet another victim of violence in Brazil, which even on Christmas Eve spares no one. The coach was murdered this Thursday, while Jará’s friend, American Brent Garret, was shot in the stomach and is in stable condition.
The coach and the American recently arrived in Brazil from the United States. Both went on to a party in the Southern Rio de Janeiro town of Paraty, where they would have celebrated Christmas, when they stopped in Santa Cruz to ask directions. At that moment, they were approached by two armed men. According to the police, Garret was shot when he tried to react, and thrown from the car, while the suspects fled in Jará’s Land Rover.
The coach was found hours later, dead, in the car, at the entrance to Sapo Favela, in the Senador Camará area of Western Rio."
I found this in a MMA, Forum:
"The carjackers forced Jara to drive into a favela...according to Brent's testimony (as reported by a night news show here), Jara tried to disarm one of the robbers because they were getting too deep into the slum and he probably thought they were going to be killed anyway."
Jara was shot 3 times, (1 in the head and 2 in the chest.) Marco Jara was 39 years old. He trained Mike Tyson in 2003 for a K-1 match (mixture of kung fu, karate and kickboxing,) that never came off. He was buried today, Sat 12/26/09. RIP
The police have leads and new witnesses and are conducting a search of favelas do Sapo e do Aço for the killers.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2009/12/26/policia-localiza-nova-testemunha-do-caso-do-lutador-assassinado-faz-buscas-em-duas-favelas-915367362.asp
Damn, this shit never stops..It's the Wild, Wild West!
This evening 5:30p 12/26/09:
Police were alerted that a black Suzuki Vittara, had been stolen in Lagoa. Recognizing the vehicle as it went down Rua Santa Clara, police signaled to the driver to stopped the car, but were not obeyed. The police then chased the stolen vehicle, which was occupied by three armed men. The chase ended at the corner of Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana and Rua Siqueira Campos, where they were stopped at a traffic light, behind a bus. The robbers got out and opened fire on police and fled on foot.
An intense shoot out then ensued. A police car had the rear window shattered. The Suzuki was riddled with bullets, but there were no reports of injuries.
One or two of the men entered Our Lady of Copacabana Church, on Rua Hilario de Gouveia, where a mass was taking place. The faithful were frightened, but the police managed to enter the church and arrested one of the men. (This is the church between the Miami Show and Termas Monte Carlo on Rua Hilario de Gouveia, across the street from that little park.) The church was evacuated and Police were searching the church for the second gunman. More than 30 police officers responded to the scene.
A later report stated that 2 gunmen were captured, one was shot. Police were looking for the third gunman.
http://odia.terra.com.br/portal/rio/html/2009/12/bandido_troca_tiros_com_a_policia_invade_igreja_e_e_preso_em_copacabana_55262.html
Photos:
http://oglobo.globo.com/participe/mat/2009/12/26/leitores-fotografam-acao-da-policia-em-copacabana-915368984.asp
Video report:
http://g1.globo.com/Noticias/Rio/0,,MUL1427115-5606,00-CRIMINOSOS+INVADEM+IGREJA+APOS+TROCA+DE+TIROS+COM+PMS+EM+COPACABANA.html
John Cricket
12-27-09, 00:57
Brazil has hired Rudy Giuliani to clean Rio up for the Olympics. Rudy really cleaned up New York, he did an amazing job but it wasn't as much fun anymore. A few places I like to hit in NY had closed because of his policies. While he did a good job, he went too far.
If he does the same thing in Rio, expect big changes, closing Help would just be the first of many things he will clean up. That's the way he does it, he starts with the little things first like littering then moves up and takes the big things out next.
Well, knowledgeable people have been predicting this for quite some time. The "Brazil will never change because it's too corrupt" crowd doesn't want to believe that an anti-sexual tourism crusade is gaining steam down here. This is not the first time in the city's history something like this has happened, either. Vargas squashed to old Lapa. The military squashed the old Mangue. Looks like Copa around posto 5-6 is now going to get the hammer - maybe even all of Copa.
Brazil has hired Rudy Giuliani to clean Rio up for the Olympics. Rudy really cleaned up New York, he did an amazing job but it wasn't as much fun anymore. A few places I like to hit in NY had closed because of his policies. While he did a good job, he went too far.
If he does the same thing in Rio, expect big changes, closing Help would just be the first of many things he will clean up. That's the way he does it, he starts with the little things first like littering then moves up and takes the big things out next.
http://www.brazzilmag.com/content/view/11507/1/
http://ny1.com/5-manhattan-news-content/news_beats/politics/109944/giuliani-to-provide-security-consulting-for-rio-olympics/
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-1236888/Rio-Janeiro-crackdown-bring-order-beaches-World-Cup-Olympic-Games.htmlI thought this was a joke when i first read it. His firm is being hired for advice. I dont see team rudy making any moves on their own. Rio's govt, police and special units will be making the final say of what gets cleaned up.
This is sad though considering how rudy screwed up ny during his time.
John Cricket
12-28-09, 16:22
Rudy'd "clean up" is a bit of a myth. Sure, crime dropped in NYC, but it dropped nationwide during the same period. Economics and demographics are more responsible for the change in NYC except for one thing:
Rudy's "zero tolerance" program ended up making Manhattan too hostile for a lot of poor people, who just went across the river and continued doing what they always did.
Thaddeus Blanchette is an immigrant to Brazil who has been living in and studying the country most of his adult life. He blogs at http://omangueblog.********.com and can be reached at poboxthad@yahoo.com.br.
http://www.brazzil.com/component/content/article/211-december-2009/10318-giuliani-comes-to-rio-for-another-assault-on-the-poor-in-the-name-of-hygiene-and-order.html
Rudy'd "clean up" is a bit of a myth. Sure, crime dropped in NYC, but it dropped nationwide during the same period. Economics and demographics are more responsible for the change in NYC except for one thing:
Rudy's "zero tolerance" program ended up making Manhattan too hostile for a lot of poor people, who just went across the river and continued doing what they always did.
Read this guys blog, very similar to what you are saying:
http://omangueblog.********.com
Brazil has hired Rudy Giuliani to clean Rio up for the Olympics. Rudy really cleaned up New York, he did an amazing job but it wasn't as much fun anymore. A few places I like to hit in NY had closed because of his policies. While he did a good job, he went too far.
If he does the same thing in Rio, expect big changes, closing Help would just be the first of many things he will clean up. That's the way he does it, he starts with the little things first like littering then moves up and takes the big things out next.
http://www.brazzilmag.com/content/view/11507/1/
http://ny1.com/5-manhattan-news-content/news_beats/politics/109944/giuliani-to-provide-security-consulting-for-rio-olympics/
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-1236888/Rio-Janeiro-crackdown-bring-order-beaches-World-Cup-Olympic-Games.html
One of the articles I posted above talks about cleaning up the barracas on the beach, making them all uniform and white and clean. Some of the owners complained because they said that their returning customers wouldn't recognize where they are located.
Below is a link to Jose from CiCi barraca in Copacabana across from the Rio Othon Palace hotel (Ho beach) he will steal your eye teeth if he could get away with it, watch out for him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJPsrxU3hNA&feature=channel
Beach Star
01-08-10, 17:30
Well, knowledgeable people have been predicting this for quite some time. The "Brazil will never change because it's too corrupt" crowd doesn't want to believe that an anti-sexual tourism crusade is gaining steam down here. This is not the first time in the city's history something like this has happened, either. Vargas squashed to old Lapa. The military squashed the old Mangue. Looks like Copa around posto 5-6 is now going to get the hammer - maybe even all of Copa.
you keep on trying man!!!! hahahaah!!
Rudy'd "clean up" is a bit of a myth. Sure, crime dropped in NYC, but it dropped nationwide during the same period. Economics and demographics are more responsible for the change in NYC except for one thing:
Rudy's "zero tolerance" program ended up making Manhattan too hostile for a lot of poor people, who just went across the river and continued doing what they always did.
I lived the nightmare and I continue to do so. The other side of the river is no better trust me.
This is the first I've heard of rudy going into brazil. This should be a very interesting experiment. I will be watching that's for sure.
Places will start disappearing. You will be harassed at clubs or on the street. Eventually people will get tired of being pushed around dealing with raids and having to pay for it.
A fun night will mean staying at home drinking with buddies...beats getting caught up in a raid or having some assholes telling you what to do while you buy $7 beers.
If you are white and have money you have nothing to fear. Everybody else is part of the problem not the solution.
The one thing rio has going for it is extreme poverty to the point where human life means nothing (take it or leave it) and the number of poverty stricken non whites. I'll be damned if the local people are going to let some gringo come in and run the show. Only time will tell.
I never made it to rio due to the pricing structure. Now I can rest assured I never will make it...hopefully I will eat my own words.
I feel sorry for expats down there. You will be living in a very different rio if ghouliana gets his way.
I wouldn't be surprised if they started busting american mongers for solicitation. It sounds far fetched but you never know with these people. Can you imagine starting a "tattle tale" trend in SA ?
Have Fun.
Poucolouco
01-08-10, 21:56
you keep on trying man!!!! hahahaah!!
OMG, Don't tell Jackson. He'll have a cow.
Simpleminded
01-09-10, 01:57
i agree with john cricket. i think the rudy effect is mostly bs. nyc used to be a very dangerous place in the 80's with crack and it's effects on people. the fact that the economy improved and crack waned had a lot more to do with reducing crime than rudy having cops arrest people for [CodeWord112] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord112) in public, jumping turnstyles, and drinking beer or smoking weed on the street. i kind of miss the old days of walking down 42nd st with everyone asking if you wanted to buy weed, fake id, or switchblades. now it's just tourists and disney crap.
i am pretty certain that hillary clinton had pictures of him banging sheep or some other animal and blackmailed him to drop out of the senate race with the excuse that he had cancer. after the race, i never heard a peep about his cancer or seen any pictures of him looking sick. he is corrupt as seen by the company he keeps like bernie kerick.
i would not worry about rudy cleaning up rio.
John Cricket
01-09-10, 16:40
Artistyp is right about the one thing Rio has going for it.
Unlike NYC, we just don't have a large enough urban middle class to make "urban renewal" absolute. They are going to try to push the poor and "unfamily" scenes back of the hills and out of tourist eyesight, that's for sure. But the favelas are a bit like the proverbial 20,000 pound canary: they ain't going anywhere and there's not enough money, nor time, to get them gussied up before 2016.
I'm betting that the front end of Rocinha gets gentrified, though.
artistyp is right about the one thing rio has going for it.
unlike nyc, we just don't have a large enough urban middle class to make "urban renewal" absolute. they are going to try to push the poor and "unfamily" scenes back of the hills and out of tourist eyesight, that's for sure. but the favelas are a bit like the proverbial 20,000 pound canary: they ain't going anywhere and there's not enough money, nor time, to get them gussied up before 2016.
i'm betting that the front end of rocinha gets gentrified, though.
i would consider the improvement in the economy and cleaning up debauchery to be different avenues.
new york became safer as it got more expensive. low income groups who would likely be the source of both crime and debauchery (from one perspective) were pushed out/further away from manhattan due to pricing. as they left affluent people who were able to afford those rents came in and took their place.
eventually manhattan became inhabitated by a new breed flocking to new york because it was safe. there was a growing community of losers doing the same thing...safety in numbers. stores closed and new ones opened. none of them catering to native new yorkers but to the new breed of ny asshole claiming his/her 15 minutes.
the motto of the 90's was " i'd gladly pay more to be safe". the rise of the bloomberg dynasty followed and here we are again. i don't want to eat grapes this season because they are going for $4.99 a pound..insane.
enforcement or archaic cabert laws were enforced at the same time. teen narcs mingled in nyc hotspots and brought down club culture. smoking bans stopped hardcore partiers from going out . bottle service becomes the new cool. noise complaints became an issue due to people having to smoke outside...new noise regulations went into affect.
it was a chain of reactions. imho all thought out.
brazil has new money so this will be interesting to see how they handle this.
sorry for the rant.
Hi All
I'm planning on returning to Rio in april for a month and would like to stay
on Almirante Ganzalves again. As all the action seems to be on
and around Prado junior, I will have some travelling to do everyday.
Is it safe enough to use the white mini buses that go up and down the street
and what is the current price for one way.
Thanks
Hi All
I'm planning on returning to Rio in april for a month and would like to stay
on Almirante Ganzalves again. As all the action seems to be on
and around Prado junior, I will have some travelling to do everyday.
Is it safe enough to use the white mini buses that go up and down the street
and what is the current price for one way.
Thanks
Yeah they´re ok. Fare varies, have small notes (eg 2R´s) ready. Sit down and pass some money to the guy who opens the door for you, he´s usally collecting it. Tell them where you want to get off. But almost any bus going along NS Copa will do just as well and also run all night - just have your 2.20 ready so you get on before it´s time to get off ;)
Brazil Specialist
02-07-10, 08:12
Hi All
I'm planning on returning to Rio in april for a month and would like to stay
on Almirante Ganzalves again. As all the action seems to be on
and around Prado junior, I will have some travelling to do everyday.
Is it safe enough to use the white mini buses that go up and down the street
and what is the current price for one way.
Thanks
Vans are considered quite safe, safer then buses. On the other hand, getting to the van stop, waiting for the van, and getting home once you got out of the van are dangerous. I still would take a taxi. Split a taxi with a friend if paying 5 dollars for a taxi instead of 1.50 dollars for a van makes a big difference for you
Vans are considered quite safe, safer then buses. On the other hand, getting to the van stop, waiting for the van, and getting home once you got out of the van are dangerous. I still would take a taxi. Split a taxi with a friend if paying 5 dollars for a taxi instead of 1.50 dollars for a van makes a big difference for you
I may spend quite abit of time around this area, so was thinking that 2 trips up there a day, daytime, night time, and staying in rio for 30 days, it will eat into my budget.
I may spend quite abit of time around this area, so was thinking that 2 trips up there a day, daytime, night time, and staying in rio for 30 days, it will eat into my budget.
I beg to differ from Brazil Specialist. If they have space they will not only stop wherever you want them to but will probably slow down and tout for business.
Similarly, regular buses will stop more or less anywhere when the road is not too busy. But if it is busy at least you generally get a seat on a minivan.
To the unwary, crossing the road is dangerous of course.
Is is getting that bad down there ?http://www.yahoo.com/_ylt=AmvcnAs2ToKrqLNluEYpnW6bvZx4;_ylu=X3oDMTJtbmw3NW8wBGNwb3MDNgRpbnRsA3VzBHBrZwMzMzU2YTU0MTk0ZTYwMGE4Zjk3ZDliZmYwOWVmN2FmMwRzZWMDaW5fbmV3cwRzbGsDbndzLXRpdGxlBHRlc3QDODk0/SIG=12dnh87oq/**http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100212/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/lt_brazil_carnival
Is is getting that bad down there ?http://www.yahoo.com/_ylt=AmvcnAs2ToKrqLNluEYpnW6bvZx4;_ylu=X3oDMTJtbmw3NW8wBGNwb3MDNgRpbnRsA3VzBHBrZwMzMzU2YTU0MTk0ZTYwMGE4Zjk3ZDliZmYwOWVmN2FmMwRzZWMDaW5fbmV3cwRzbGsDbndzLXRpdGxlBHRlc3QDODk0/SIG=12dnh87oq/**http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100212/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/lt_brazil_carnivalJust great.
Ruin Brazil like he ruined NY.
Rudy is the real thug.
Is is getting that bad down there ?http://www.yahoo.com/_ylt=AmvcnAs2ToKrqLNluEYpnW6bvZx4;_ylu=X3oDMTJtbmw3NW8wBGNwb3MDNgRpbnRsA3VzBHBrZwMzMzU2YTU0MTk0ZTYwMGE4Zjk3ZDliZmYwOWVmN2FmMwRzZWMDaW5fbmV3cwRzbGsDbndzLXRpdGxlBHRlc3QDODk0/SIG=12dnh87oq/**http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100212/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/lt_brazil_carnival
Frankly I see nothing wrong with cracking down on people pissing in the streets. In Salvador during Carnaval you're literally retched on [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) odors. Disgusting.
Anyhow Rio's carnaval is drunken chaos. Dozens thousands favelados and periferiados invade Zona Sul to get badly drunk and party "burro style". The worst moment to be in town.
Many wealthy Cariocas literally RUN AWAY from Rio during Carnaval.
For those that like to keep up with such things, a fairly non-partisan article in today's Economist newspaper on Rio favelas and the state of play over several years, with particular reference to the build up for the Olympics. Much omitted, but still a decent overview.
http://www.economist.com/node/16326428
Member #3439
06-16-10, 02:48
For those that like to keep up with such things, a fairly non-partisan article in today's Economist newspaper on Rio favelas and the state of play over several years, with particular reference to the build up for the Olympics. Much omitted, but still a decent overview.
http://www.economist.com/node/16326428
The comment about most residents earning less than R1000/month is interesting. So from the perspective of the local criminals, robbing a monger is worth 3 days pay, minimum. And that's if you're going into the cheap places like BA85.
It also illustrates how overpriced the higher end termas are, charging mongers a faveledo's monthly pay for just 3-4 hours of sex. If I go to one of those high end places again, and they smile, I'd know that they are having a laugh on me. ;)
The comment about most residents earning less than R1000/month is interesting. So from the perspective of the local criminals, robbing a monger is worth 3 days pay, minimum. And that's if you're going into the cheap places like BA85.
It also illustrates how overpriced the higher end termas are, charging mongers a faveledo's monthly pay for just 3-4 hours of sex. If I go to one of those high end places again, and they smile, I'd know that they are having a laugh on me. ;)
I've been trying to make this point for a while now: 200r for a hour is wildly expensive compared to the realitve income of the people.
If most people live on say 800r per month, then you are pay the equivilent of one weeks pay of two hours.
Try doing the reverse calculation: in America approx. $3,065, would you pay a girl $766.00 for one hour?
On craigs list, the average price is about $200/hr; which is about 6.5%. Then why not stick to this % in Brasil? This would be about 50r/hr. You can make is 100r if you really feel generous!
The favela wars seems to get even worse today. It's a shame they can't use the army to take the control of the favelas. At least they can use the Marinha's armoured vehicles and drivers.
I feel sorry for the innocent people getting hurt.
Poucolouco
11-25-10, 21:02
The favela wars seems to get even worse today. It's a shame they can't use the army to take the control of the favelas. At least they can use the Marinha's armoured vehicles and drivers.
I feel sorry for the innocent people getting hurt.
Television coverage shows the trafficant force to be in fairly large numbers. Although the cameras capture them running from police rifle fire, not many of them are getting hit. Maybe if the police would employ Raptor drones they could wipe out larger numbers of these terrorist dirt bags. The current strategy is just driving them underground to return and cause mayhem another day. Although the terrorism is being waged throughout Rio de Janeiro, most of the bandits are in the Penha and Alemao favelas and hide among the populations of 20,000 people who live there.
Army troops may not be such a good idea. The trafficants are at war with the police militar, and the Pacification Police, not the Brasilian army. Army forces would be a temporary band-aid and would go away when the situation calms down. The problem would only be put back in the laps of the local authorities when Army forces are pulled out. The Rio police militar need to get control of the situation now, not later.
Maybe if the police would employ Raptor drones they could wipe out larger numbers of these terrorist dirt bags. The current strategy is just driving them underground to return and cause mayhem another day.They've got to capture a few and insert micro chips into their brains, and then release them back into the favelas.
Television coverage shows the trafficant force to be in fairly large numbers. Although the cameras capture them running from police rifle fire, not many of them are getting hit. Maybe if the police would employ Raptor drones they could wipe out larger numbers of these terrorist dirt bags. The current strategy is just driving them underground to return and cause mayhem another day. Although the terrorism is being waged throughout Rio de Janeiro, most of the bandits are in the Penha and Alemao favelas and hide among the populations of 20,000 people who live there.
Army troops may not be such a good idea. The trafficants are at war with the police militar, and the Pacification Police, not the Brasilian army. Army forces would be a temporary band-aid and would go away when the situation calms down. The problem would only be put back in the laps of the local authorities when Army forces are pulled out. The Rio police militar need to get control of the situation now, not later.
Actually different criminal factions have joined together because of current mayor's attempt of taking favela's under police control.
There is a rumor that on Saturday different criminal factions will attack any commuter in Linha Vermelha and Via Dutra.
My opinion is that the criminals simply have a tad too much human rights here. What is the problem, just surround a favela by favela with armed forces, give anyone 2 hours to get out and then just kill everyone that stays. End of the story.
This is like cancer, its necessary to remove good living tissue in order to get rid of the cancer. Same here. Anyway, there is no innocent in any favela.
My opinion is that the criminals simply have a tad too much human rights here. What is the problem, just surround a favela by favela with armed forces, give anyone 2 hours to get out and then just kill everyone that stays. End of the story.
This is like cancer, its necessary to remove good living tissue in order to get rid of the cancer. Same here. Anyway, there is no innocent in any favela.YES! Liquidate zee ghetto!
What is the problem, just surround a favela by favela with armed forces, give anyone 2 hours to get out and then just kill everyone that stays. End of the story... Anyway, there is no innocent in any favela.
Everyone living in the favelas are criminals?
Not surprising to hear such a bullsh*t comment from Perkele, who is suffering from favela paranoia.
You should have a forum thread "Discrimination against brazilians".
Polícia Militar, Polícia Pacificadora, Polícia Federal, BOPE, Marinha and even 800 soldiers from the Exército. Against Comando Vermelho and os Amigos dos Amigos who joined together against the police.
The situation looks very bad. Hopefully the police will manage invading the favelas and occupy them, taking full control, getting rid of all the bandits and build permanent police posts. It worked quite well in the favelas in Zona Sul.
However it will be a very hard work. Complexo do Alemão is huge, with a population of 300'000.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/info/ataques-no-rio/
People all over Rio are scared of going out on the streets.
Less tourism expected at New Year in Rio, at least less national tourism.
http://www.jb.com.br/rio/noticias/2010/11/25/turismo-deve-diminuir-no-rio-neste-fim-de-ano/
Polícia Militar, Polícia Pacificadora, Polícia Federal, BOPE, Marinha and even 800 soldiers from the Exército. Against Comando Vermelho and os Amigos dos Amigos who joined together against the police.
The situation looks very bad. Hopefully the police will manage invading the favelas and occupy them, taking full control, getting rid of all the bandits and build permanent police posts. It worked quite well in the favelas in Zona Sul.
However it will be a very hard work. Complexo do Alemão is huge, with a population of 300'000.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/info/ataques-no-rio/
People all over Rio are scared of going out on the streets.
This is not good, all my faveladinhas/safadinhas will not be able to get to work tonight. T 502 will probably only have half the staff on!
This is not good, all my faveladinhas/safadinhas will not be able to get to work tonight. T 502 will probably only have half the staff on!
T502 was extremely quiet last night.. maybe 10-15 girls, 10 guys .. the girls were almost begging...
Brazil Specialist
11-26-10, 14:13
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40377979/ns/world_news-americas/
What is the problem, just surround a favela by favela with armed forces, give anyone 2 hours to get out and then just kill everyone that stays. End of the story.
This is like cancer, its necessary to remove good living tissue in order to get rid of the cancer. Same here. Anyway, there is no innocent in any favela.What do you think this -- the West Bank? where you can just come in, surround the ghetto, and exterminate? its hubris like this that gets people fed up with the american mentality (and that of its 'ally')
T502 was extremely quiet last night.. maybe 10-15 girls, 10 guys .. the girls were almost begging...
I was there Tuesday, same deal, very light on GDP's and clients. Ironically the 3 girls that I do there regularly all sleep on site. Maybe have to offer them a wekend pad to stay at ;-)
Exoticspirit
11-27-10, 00:35
They better clean the place up before the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics.
Everyone living in the favelas are criminals?
Not surprising to hear such a bullsh*t comment from Perkele, who is suffering from favela paranoia.
You should have a forum thread "Discrimination against brazilians".
Unlike you, I live in Rio and I can see what is going on in favelas day by day.
For your knowledge, great majority of the people do not live in favelas. Great majority do not want anything to do with favela people. Uneducated trash. No matter how much you think that your favela fuck is pretty or intelligent.
I was once like many other here, thinking that there are good people in favelas but the truth has come to me too. Living here and understanding the whole concept has been an eye opening experience.
For your knowledge, great majority of the people do not live in favelas.
Actually 30% of the Rio population live in favelas. According to you they all are bandits.
Great majority do not want anything to do with favela people.
Your porteiro, the cashier, taxidriver etc etc, most of them live in the comunidades.
Unlike you, I live in Rio and I can see what is going on in favelas day by day.
Right, I don't live in Rio. However I've spent plenty of time in Rio. I stayed in favelas and the people I met there are the most hardworking, generous and honest people I ever met.
I know a lot of gringos living in Rio. I've seen your type many times. A gringo living in Rio, with only a few local friends and scared shitless of everybody living outside your bairro.
The police are preparing to invade Complexo Alemão very soon.
They are giving the bandits one last chance to give up.
It can't be fun to be a bandit today when they move in with armored cars full of BOPE, paratroopers etc.
Follow the events live:
http://www.vertvonline.org/
BootyTapper
11-27-10, 18:38
The police are preparing to invade Complexo Alemão very soon.
They are giving the bandits one last chance to give up.
It can't be fun to be a bandit today when they move in with armored cars full of BOPE, paratroopers etc.
Follow the events live:
http://www.vertvonline.org/
I have Globo International uphere in the USA and I read O Dia online couple days a week. From when I saw the incident at the hotel in Pepe, I knew this was not going to be good. Now the last couple days its turned into the same madness Mexico is dealing with fighting their cartels. I just hope they clean this up quickly, FIFA is keeping a very close eye on events down there. I know Lula does not want to lose the 2014 WC and sure Dilma does not want it to be her first major public relations issue she has to deal with in January '11.
I have been to Brazil many times and dealt with cariocas from the favelas and to say that all people living in the favelas are bad is just wrong.... that is such a super over generalization. Like everywhere else on earth, we have good and bad people. All some of those people need is a chance to make their lives better.
I have been to Brazil many times and dealt with cariocas from the favelas and to say that all people living in the favelas are bad is just wrong.... that is such a super over generalization. Like everywhere else on earth, we have good and bad people. All some of those people need is a chance to make their lives better.
The above comment is very true, PONTO.
I'm monitoring the situation as I'm supposed to return to Rio in now less than 10 days. I took a cursory look at flights to Salvador, Sao Paulo, Recife, Natal, etc as an alternative to going back, but if it gets a little better, there's nothing like Rio, and I'll be back. One of the girls I'm trying to meet off of BrazilCupid.com said she thinks it'll be better in about a week and back to normal in two. I'm not so sure, but you never know.
I left Rio a few hours ago and I can tell you that unless you plan, personally in PARTICIPATING in any of the events you are watching, there is no danger. Of course, you don't walk into the Favelas, just like if you go to LA, NY, or any major cities, you stay out of the gang infested areas. The same applies here. With the extra security along the streets it alctually felt safer for me and you could hear gunfire from my hotel. Don't let a few thugs alter your plans. Go out there and enjoy yourself.
I'm monitoring the situation as I'm supposed to return to Rio in now less than 10 days. I took a cursory look at flights to Salvador, Sao Paulo, Recife, Natal, etc as an alternative to going back, but if it gets a little better, there's nothing like Rio, and I'll be back. One of the girls I'm trying to meet off of BrazilCupid.com said she thinks it'll be better in about a week and back to normal in two. I'm not so sure, but you never know.
Actually different criminal factions have joined together because of current mayor's attempt of taking favela's under police control.
There is a rumor that on Saturday different criminal factions will attack any commuter in Linha Vermelha and Via Dutra.
My opinion is that the criminals simply have a tad too much human rights here. What is the problem, just surround a favela by favela with armed forces, give anyone 2 hours to get out and then just kill everyone that stays. End of the story.
This is like cancer, its necessary to remove good living tissue in order to get rid of the cancer. Same here. Anyway, there is no innocent in any favela. This almost sound like the sick mess those clowns over on Fox News love to talk about they always sitting around a table and talking all big and bad about what need to be done and some other country.
And how they should just bomb everywhere and everyone "just because they can" and are war mongers BUT guess what? NONE of them spent a day in boot camp or even shot a gun in their life, they are cowards and only make excuses of how they can't fight a war BUT they want to go to war.
Why not you go and ask to help the police out? Many of those people in the favela's live there and try to do the right thing with many not going to or being able to go to school or have a good paying job this is were they now live, should we go to major inter-city here in the states and just start bombing everyone just because some fool did a crime and then run in there and hide so the whole area should be bomb?
If anything the hate need to be remove in the world it is like cancer that spreads and need to be taking out.
This type of thinking and "mind-set" is why when 9/11 happen you had some people in other countries jumping up in down and was happy.
Please tell me you are kidding?
Kid Cisco
I left Rio a few hours ago and I can tell you that unless you plan, personally in PARTICIPATING in any of the events you are watching, there is no danger. Of course, you don't walk into the Favelas, just like if you go to LA, NY, or any major cities, you stay out of the gang infested areas. The same applies here. With the extra security along the streets it alctually felt safer for me and you could hear gunfire from my hotel. Don't let a few thugs alter your plans. Go out there and enjoy yourself.
I agree that there is no reason to alter plans of going to Rio, but you can't say that there is no danger. What scared the cariocas is that there have been attacks more or less all over Rio.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/info/ataques-no-rio/
Rio has always been a bit unsecure to visit. Right now more unsecure than usual. Hopefully the situation will go back to normal very soon.
I'm going to Rio in one month and I hope the centro casas and VM are swarming with lovely ladies from Zona Norte. :D
Complexo do Alemão was taken yesterday. 2700 police etc took control in less than 2 hours. The majority of the bandits fled. The army will stay there until UPP is ready to install themselves permanently.
I guess Rocinha e Vidigal are the next favelas to be invaded.
Poucolouco
12-01-10, 15:00
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-11870016
First off, Lula is right to praise the police and federal armed forces for taking control of the situation and cleaning out the Alemao and Vila Cruziero favelas. It couldn't have been done any other way. I think the military refers to this approach as using a "force multiplier."
Notice Lula takes credit for providing everything governor Cabral asked for. However, as a good politician he avoids any blame for the drug traffic situation having grown to such proportions in the past 10 years, eight of which were on his watch.
A huge number of bandits escaped the night before the assault as the police were amassing forces. Now the authorities believe that many of them escaped through the 2 km long storm sewer that drains out of the favela. Really! I guess the police don't watch many action movies down here.
Just got back from Rio. I was stuck in Mandela 1 for about a week. Daily Operacao with the PM, CORE, BOPE, etc. Three PC raided my casa sem papel (warrant) and name tags removed from their vests. They didn't believe I was an Americano until my passport was reviewed. I advised them that the US Consulate and my brother (PF) were aware of my position and status. They STFU, and departed.
At times, I wish I were a regular tourist...
Its so funny how people who haven't been living in this country for extended periods of time have such an insight of these favelas and people who live in them.
I guarantee that 90% of the Rio de Janeiro population that pays their taxes, water, electricity, TV, gas and other similar things will tell you that everyone in favela is a thief. Those who live in favelas do not pay any of above mentioned. So to me, whom pays all above, those people are common criminals. Period.
How to solve those issues, that I do not know but as I said I wouldn't lose my good nights sleep if army and the police wipes them all off. That's what I'm doing to all parasites in my house.
To Kid Cisco, I'd love to help the police to fight against those criminals but unfortunate fact is that they won't accept my help. So why bother? Just suggesting anything like that is plain ridiculous. Hey, I pay their salary. Isn't that enough?
To Sperto. I've been all around this city and the country too. I' do not fear being robbed or assaulted. I do not wish that to happen, but I'm not actually afraid. I go anywhere I please in Rio de Janeiro and I do not live in Zona Sul. Also I do not have porteiro, since I live in my own house. I hardly ever use a taxi and if I do I usually call to someone I know, not because the security but my friends do know how to go to my house without teaching the damn way.
I'm sure that there are a few people in supermarkets and so as employees whom are from favelas, but that doesn't bother me at all. They work. That's quite ok. But what I have noticed that over 80% of them are women. Favela rats do not even want to work.
You guys make such a fuss that you've been visiting favelas and you know people from there. NEWSFLASH most of the Brazilians will treat you extremely nicely because you are GRINGOES. Look at the whole thing from their point of view. A girl, probably a ho, brings a "rich" gringo home. Family sees an opportunity because they know that another ho got married to a gringo and now they are doing well because that gringo sends money. Anybody who sees another person as a possible source of income and possibility to improve his situation will be very nice. So try not to fool yourselves.... and for those who will come and tell that he has been "friends" for ages and nobody asked anything, that is just patience that favela rats have. They have nothing to lose.
How to solve those issues, that I do not know but as I said I wouldn't lose my good nights sleep if army and the police wipes them all off. That's what I'm doing to all parasites in my house...
I'd love to help the police to fight against those criminals but unfortunate fact is that they won't accept my help...
I'm sure that there are a few people in supermarkets and so as employees whom are from favelas, but that doesn't bother me at all. They work. That's quite ok.
I guess genocide would be a solution that you would like.
They sell cheap machetes in Mercado Popular.
Its so funny how people who haven't been living in this country for extended periods of time have such an insight of these favelas and people who live in them.
Whether Sperto has lived in Brazil or not is not relevant, his knowledge of Brazil is the best of any person that posts here IMHO!
Sperto has seen more of Brazil than most Brazilians. I believe he has a better insight into normal Brazilian life than 99% of gringos that live in Brazil. His knowledge of the simple Brazilian life is way way better than mine and I have seen a lot of favelas and a lot of the interior. I believe he has visited every state in Brazil, how many people can say that?
Exec Talent
12-02-10, 13:19
Whether Sperto has lived in Brazil or not is not relevant, his knowledge of Brazil is the best of any person that posts here IMHO!
Sperto has seen more of Brazil than most Brazilians. I believe he has a better insight into normal Brazilian life than 99% of gringos that live in Brazil. His knowledge of the simple Brazilian life is way way better than mine and I have seen a lot of favelas and a lot of the interior. I believe he has visited every state in Brazil, how many people can say that?
I generally learn more from one of Sperto's posts than I learn from ten of the self-proclaimed resident Rio experts.
Beach Star
12-02-10, 14:25
Just got back from Rio. I was stuck in Mandela 1 for about a week. Daily Operacao with the PM, CORE, BOPE, etc. Three PC raided my casa sem papel (warrant) and name tags removed from their vests. They didn't believe I was an Americano until my passport was reviewed. I advised them that the US Consulate and my brother (PF) were aware of my position and status. They STFU, and departed.
At times, I wish I were a regular tourist...
What the heck were you doing in that part of town? It's lawless at best, last week it was in a war zone. I think you were very lucky to get away without mishap.
How to solve those issues, that I do not know but as I said I wouldn't lose my good nights sleep if army and the police wipes them all off. That's what I'm doing to all parasites in my house.With an attitude like that, why would you choose to live in Brazil? So out of touch in a country where people do the best they can and try to live happy. Wouldn't you be better off in a place where so many people think the way you do -- like in Isreal for example.
What the heck were you doing in that part of town? It's lawless at best, last week it was in a war zone. I think you were very lucky to get away without mishap.
I was there with my mulher visiting family. I managed to exit late afternoon, spent my last 24 hours at a hotel called, Stop Time, near Ave. Brasil.
There is talk of police cleaning Rocinha, however, I doubt that very much. Too many foreign nationals reside there. Also, many non-profits. Should they be harmed, it would be bad press.
I agree with Perkele on some point's made about favelado mentality.
Valeu!
There is talk of police cleaning Rocinha, however, I doubt that very much. Too many foreign nationals reside there.
The Police won't invade Rocinha because there are gringos living there?
Sure...
A lot of the Olympic games will occur in Barra. Rocinha is right on the way to Barra. Rocinha and Vidigal will both be invaded.
With an attitude like that, why would you choose to live in Brazil? So out of touch in a country where people do the best they can and try to live happy. Wouldn't you be better off in a place where so many people think the way you do -- like in Isreal for example.
Before going mental at Perkele, it's maybe worth noting that his is also the attitude of many middle-class and upper-class Rio people, including some of my friends. It is also a problem in the better schools where people I have met and discussed it with at great length struggle to change attitudes among students who frankly don't want to know. Many people living in Rio wouldn't talk to someone from a favela, much less spend time in one. I don't agree with such an attitude personally, but is it worth arguing about it on a board dedicated to mongering? The chances of changing someone's opinion is probably pretty small. All I'd suggest is that if we can either avoid the subject or as much as possible avoid inflammatory language, we can have different views and still exchange information and helpful advice related to mongering.
Experienced visitors whose mongering (or Carnaval) interests may involve favelas may want to exchange relevant info relating to favelas and should be free to do so. If Perkele or anyone else thinks favela dwellers are all lowlife then that is hardly top of the list of my priorities. It's easy to have a view changed when you're paying tax that seems to be ill-spent too. People can think what they like, and I can have a different opinion without falling out.
Before going mental at Perkele, it's maybe worth noting that his is also the attitude of many middle-class and upper-class Rio people, including some of my friends. It is also a problem in the better schools where people I have met and discussed it with at great length struggle to change attitudes among students who frankly don't want to know. Many people living in Rio wouldn't talk to someone from a favela, much less spend time in one. I don't agree with such an attitude personally, but is it worth arguing about it on a board dedicated to mongering? The chances of changing someone's opinion is probably pretty small. All I'd suggest is that if we can either avoid the subject or as much as possible avoid inflammatory language, we can have different views and still exchange information and helpful advice related to mongering.
Experienced visitors whose mongering (or Carnaval) interests may involve favelas may want to exchange relevant info relating to favelas and should be free to do so. If Perkele or anyone else thinks favela dwellers are all lowlife then that is hardly top of the list of my priorities. It's easy to have a view changed when you're paying tax that seems to be ill-spent too. People can think what they like, and I can have a different opinion without falling out.
Most interesting post.
Now, tell me are you mingling with thieves and robberies in your own country? I fail to comprehend why being poor justifies stealing and drug dealing and robbing? Isn't that what you all are justifying here? How would any of you feel if your electric bill would be 4 times higher because some of your neighbors are not paying their rent?
Now, most of you say that there are honest people living in favelas who work and contribute. That is true, there are hard working people there I recognize that. BUT everyone who lives in these favelas or should we use latest term communities, are stealing from everyone whom are paying their taxes and utilities. That is a plain fact.
Why they are not paying is that all these companies providing services, electricity, gas and water, have been plain scared to go there and demand these people to pay. Now, since the police is invading these communities those companies have started to implement measures to be able to get their money for services that community members haven't been paying. Also state is starting to implement the property taxes etc. I have heard million times how these fine people from communities are crying how to survive when they have to PAY for services that they have been STEALING for last 20 - 30 years.
I would be happy as a pig in the shit if I'd get my electricity, gas and water for free. During the summer those expenses run pretty high (for those who do not know electricity is expensive in Rio) because of A/C and so on.
I'm sorry if I have offended you with my view of the people in the communities, but I do not like too much anyone who is leeching on me.
Then to Golfinho, why do you think I'm living in Brazil? Give it a deep thought and I'm sure that you can figure it out.
All I'd suggest is that if we can either avoid the subject or as much as possible avoid inflammatory language, we can have different views and still exchange information and helpful advice related to mongering.
Very true. Christopherd is wise as always. Everyones has the right to his own opnion, even though it upsets me when somebody offends honest people who deservs respect.
I have heard million times how these fine people from communities are crying how to survive when they have to PAY for services that they have been STEALING for last 20 - 30 years.
You should appreciate the police invading the favelas. Soon Light will be there charging the "favela rats" for their electricity.
If you are concerned about thieves you should be concerned about the politicians in Brazil.
I generally learn more from one of Sperto's posts than I learn from ten of the self-proclaimed resident Rio experts.ET,
You get a AMEN from me I agree 100% !! from reading Sperto's reports over the years he take many risks then I would and I been going to Brazil for decades I take my hat off to him.
Sperto's give a honest view point on Rio and Brazil and places to see maps etc. without asking for anything in return nothing to sell nor nothing to rent and he not asking to be a guide to show you around (like many do) just honest reporting.
Good job Sperto keep up the good work.
Kid Cisco
If you are concerned about thieves you should be concerned about the politicians in Brazil.
I was thinking the same thing, not only the politicians but the elite class. These guys stole so much it sent the country broke in the 80's/90's. It is a direct result of those that are in power that the favelas are so large and impovished.
I don't want to romanticize the people in the favelas, I'm sure most are decent people at heart, but like most poor people all over the world, there are all kinds of "issues" (social, educational, mental) that hold them back.
As for the stealing issue, it's not such a big deal for me. Heck, if I was a favelado, I'd be doing the same or worse in order to get by.
In order to get by, poor people leach/steal/skim what they can from the government (food stamps, welfare, etc.), utilities, private sector, and individuals all over the world.
Meanwhile, in order to maintain/increase their wealth and power, rich people exploit the poor and use their political leverage to score windfall deals from the government; they also leach off the less business/financial savvy, and try to rip off each other in the private sector (sub-prime anyone?).
Basically everyone, whether rich or poor, is fighting for a bigger slice of the pie, often in ways that aren't legal or ethical. Nothing new here people!
It's just that in more primitive "dog-eat-dog" or rapacious type societies like Brazil, the situation is more intense; especially considering the VAST income disparities plaguing countries like Brazil and Colombia. [Which interesting enough are both popular monger countries, I don't think that's just a coincidence!]
What I don't get is expats complaining about the situation when they surely must have (or SHOULD have) known what they are getting into. You can't control where you were born or brought up but you have some control on where to live and what combination of subsidies, taxes, etc. you're willing to tolerate. Someone who made a serious effort to move to another country has NO sympathy in my book if he's pissed off about "supporting" all the poor people living in that country. It's not like you were invited to stay.
Very true. Christopherd is wise as always. Everyones has the right to his own opnion, even though it upsets me when somebody offends honest people who deservs respect.
You should appreciate the police invading the favelas. Soon Light will be there charging the "favela rats" for their electricity.
If you are concerned about thieves you should be concerned about the politicians in Brazil.
You are right. I'm concerned of the politicians and I know well that huge amount of the tax money goes into their corrupt pockets.
Just that the difference is that these politicians are not shooting at people, including me (never happened but is a possibility) or downright stealing their money.
I must have come a tad too strong for everyones taste on this issue but it just makes me mad to hear all around how the thieves', drugdealers' and muggers' human rights are being violated now.
To my taste the view that majority here have of favelas is very romantic. There is nothing good in those.
Now, for everyone's relief I will leave this discussion and let you guys continue over this issue.
Take care.
I fail to comprehend why being poor justifies stealing and drug dealing and robbing? Isn't that what you all are justifying here? How would any of you feel if your electric bill would be 4 times higher because some of your neighbors are not paying their rent?the Poor People are poaching electricity! better that than beating down the doors of the wealthy and making a revolution in the streets. Everyone who lived in Brazil in the late '80s knows what that might be like. So, favelados are bought off pretty cheaply when it comes down to it. We ought to be glad they accept their lot.
Member #3435
12-04-10, 02:22
With an attitude like that, why would you choose to live in Brazil? So out of touch in a country where people do the best they can and try to live happy. Wouldn't you be better off in a place where so many people think the way you do -- like in Isreal for example.So, what's the Israel connection?
Please explain.
Tiradentes
12-04-10, 05:38
The most wanted and dangerous trafficker fled last week police's invasion .... in a police car.
And those *&%# cariocas are charging over $1000 per night to spend in their gangster paradise for the reveillon.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2010/12/03/traficantes-teriam-fugido-do-cerco-ao-complexo-do-alemao-em-viatura-da-policia-civil-923181004.asp
So, what's the Israel connection?
Please explain.Give it a deep thought and I'm sure that you can figure it out.
Indeed. There's a fairly positive if overall balanced article in today's Economist magazine - find online (I'd post the link but am typing on my mobile phone while reading the paper copy). "Conquering Complexo do Alemão." They acknowledge police corruption but also try to give a bigger picture. Interesting demographics later in the same issue on S.A. democracy perceptions and so on.
The leaders of the Comando Vermelho who fled from Complexo do Alemão, in the trunk of a police car, made this after bribing the police with 2 million reais.
Brazil Specialist
12-05-10, 20:16
Now, tell me are you mingling with thieves and robberies in your own country? I fail to comprehend why being poor justifies stealing and drug dealing and robbing? Isn't that what you all are justifying here?
It is a problem, that the drug lords employed a significant percentage of the youth for security, drug running, police alert, etc.
All these people now lost their income.
And, yes, everyone steals electricity and does not pay taxes.
Of course, the major problem was politicians tolerating the invasion of land, and sort of legitimizing the illegitimate. Nowadays, some people BUY favela "property".
The real problem was the mix of acceptance of illegal invasion, and not providing services like policing.
How would any of you feel if your electric bill would be 4 times higher because some of your neighbors are not paying their rent?
their electricity bill. it is interesting, they could afford old and inefficient aircons, because they would not pay the bills.
Now, most of you say that there are honest people living in favelas who work and contribute. That is true, there are hard working people there I recognize that. BUT everyone who lives in these favelas or should we use latest term communities, are stealing from everyone whom are paying their taxes and utilities. That is a plain fact.
what is really infuriating is: if there is a landslide that destroys houses, a desaster, or just the need to disappropriate an illegal squatter house, these people get a nice apartment as a present, from government. Instead of being charged a fine for illegal use of land for 20 years.
If my house collapes, nobody will give me another apartment. People who pay rent for 20 years also will not get a free apartment.
You can see such an example at the Cruzada SÃO sEBASTIÃO in Leblon. A Favela in nice apartments in one of the most valuable parts of town.
Why they are not paying is that all these companies providing services, electricity, gas and water, have been plain scared to go there and demand these people to pay. Now, since the police is invading these communities those companies have started to implement measures to be able to get their money for services that community members haven't been paying. Also state is starting to implement the property taxes etc. I have heard million times how these fine people from communities are crying how to survive when they have to PAY for services that they have been STEALING for last 20 - 30 years.
This will be a serious problem, when they have to pay.
Of course, government steals property taxes anyway. And the electricity bill is 50% or more tax which government will waste for corruption.
I would be happy as a pig in the shit if I'd get my electricity, gas and water for free. During the summer those expenses run pretty high (for those who do not know electricity is expensive in Rio) because of A/C and so on.
and because electricity costs probably 4 times it costs in the US. Mainly due to taxes.
I'm sorry if I have offended you with my view of the people in the communities, but I do not like too much anyone who is leeching on me.
Then to Golfinho, why do you think I'm living in Brazil? Give it a deep thought and I'm sure that you can figure it out.
Perkele seems to be the only guy that has been around longer then I have been in Brazil (when will you finally meet me in person?)
20 years ago, when the minimum wage was around US$ 30, things were cheap here. With a minimum wage of US$ 300, plus US$ 300 in taxes and social benefits, for inept workers, Brazil is not cheap any more.
Only good thing are the girls .........
Perkele seems to be the only guy that has been around longer then I have been in Brazil (when will you finally meet me in person?)
20 years ago, when the minimum wage was around US$ 30, things were cheap here. With a minimum wage of US$ 300, plus US$ 300 in taxes and social benefits, for inept workers, Brazil is not cheap any more.
Only good thing are the girls .........If you were in Brazil during the Sarney years and the Collor election and aftermath, you wouldn't feel so bad about favelados getting over without paying for utilities. It's a tradeoff to having them stampede the beaches en masse, blocking the tunnels robbing and carjacking. For anyone who remembers what it was like. Not something you want to see happen again.
Beach Star
12-06-10, 13:16
If you were in Brazil during the Sarney years and the Collor election and aftermath, you wouldn't feel so bad about favelados getting over without paying for utilities. It's a tradeoff to having them stampede the beaches en masse, blocking the tunnels robbing and carjacking. For anyone who remembers what it was like. Not something you want to see happen again.
Are you trying to say things in Rio have got better over the last 20-25 yrs? That's the most ridiculous suggestion I have ever heard. During this period favelas grew at an incredible rate, the favelas today cannot be compared to those 25 yrs ago.
You say its a "tradoff", nonsense, they didn't pay for utilities in favelas then, nor in large parts of the äsphalt areas as well.
Are you trying to say things in Rio have got better over the last 20-25 yrs? That's the most ridiculous suggestion I have ever heard. During this period favelas grew at an incredible rate, the favelas today cannot be compared to those 25 yrs ago.
You say its a "tradoff", nonsense, they didn't pay for utilities in favelas then, nor in large parts of the äsphalt areas as well.Better for some; worse for others. You evidently didn't experience the city/country during the late '80s, or else you selectively remember.
Better for some; worse for others. You evidently didn't experience the city/country during the late '80s, or else you selectively remember.
I did promise not to stick my nose to this conversation, BUT I'm curious to know.
Are you saying that being poor without any intention to try to improve one's life justifies stealing and robbing and any general illegalities? And are you saying that when local authorities are finally taking an action in order to bring these criminals into justice, that it is not justified? All this because what happened in 80's?
Why is it so wrong to expect everyone to pay for their share?
Its guys like you that make me think that some Brazilians are right when they say that every gringo that gets mugged is getting what he deserves.
I did promise not to stick my nose to this conversation, BUT I'm curious to know.
Are you saying that being poor without any intention to try to improve one's life justifies stealing and robbing and any general illegalities? And are you saying that when local authorities are finally taking an action in order to bring these criminals into justice, that it is not justified? All this because what happened in 80's?
Why is it so wrong to expect everyone to pay for their share?You're raising legitimate issues here. I'm not trying to express an ideological perspective or offering political commentary. Leave that to the bleeding heart liberals and their ilk. All I'm saying is: allowing the hand-to-mouth poor to mooch some free utilities is preferable to having a vicious, hostile underclass receptive to calls for social revolution. Going back to the end of the military government, there were a few years where the level of expectation or whatever the favelados were thinking got out of hand. If you were here you remember when thousands would swarm the beach and run amok, and blocking the tunnels robbing every car. Those little, round police stations are disappearing but there used to be a lot of them for good reason. When did you first come to Brazil to live?
If you were here you remember when thousands would swarm the beach and run amok...
I remember those arrastões on the beaches in the very beginning of the nineties. A very large group of "favela rats" (quoting Perkele :)) rushed the beach stealing, fighting and causing mass panic. Very chaotic.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdkFzTJoxjY
I remember those arrastões on the beaches in the very beginning of the nineties. A very large group of "favela rats" (quoting Perkele :)) rushed the beach stealing, fighting and causing mass panic. Very chaotic.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdkFzTJoxjY
I can't imagine being on the beach with something like that going on. It looked really scary, especially if you were just hanging at the beach with your family, and all chaos broke out.
The leaders of the Comando Vermelho who fled from Complexo do Alemão, in the trunk of a police car, made this after bribing the police with 2 million reais.My last night in Mandela 1, the dono of Vila Cruzeiro arrived with his boys. Same faction. Not sure how they made it out.
In Brasil, these are feudal times. There are the "have" and the "have nots." The line drawn between the two classes is difficult to breach. I do believe, should this course continue, there will be civil unrest on a grander scale.
I remember those arrastões on the beaches in the very beginning of the nineties. A very large group of "favela rats" (quoting Perkele.) rushed the beach stealing, fighting and causing mass panic. Very chaotic.
Can remember one time. As I was there. And it seemed more like an army going in with a battle plan. They took what they could grab, ripped the clothes off people, old women had their tops torn off, they tore jewelry from fingers and ripped earrings off earlobes. What I saw was that children were participating and girls. Did not notice that in youtube video (did you film it, sperto?). The attack was hellish and panicked the good cariocas. Just as fernando mellor was coming in, around 1990. By 1992 it had tapered off, but still there were problems with the tunnels and carjackings and attacks at night. Anyhow, difference now is the problems are kept as much as possible inside the 'communidades' and out of zona sul. I liked Brazil during the Military Government, and so did everyone else who had money.
did you film it, sperto?No, I didn't.
I guess a gringo filming those beach rats that close would loose his videocamera very quickly.
Guys,
I've just spent literally hours reading the Rio reports so I'm now a little prepared for first trip to Rio.
However, can you tell me is it even safe in Rio right now as I don't have the energy to go read all this thread too. .
I'm assuming now wouldn't be a good time to arrange a favela tour? .
Guys,
I've just spent literally hours reading the Rio reports so I'm now a little prepared for first trip to Rio.
However, can you tell me is it even safe in Rio right now as I don't have the energy to go read all this thread too. .
I'm assuming now wouldn't be a good time to arrange a favela tour? . Yes, it's quite safe. No need for a bulletproof jacket.
Funny though, one of the favelas most visited by favela tours is one of the two favelas in Zona Sul not invaded by the police, Rocinha.
Cheers Sperto. I'm off to google Rio and briefly see what's going on rather than reading another 70 pages.
Yes, it's quite safe. No need for a bulletproof jacket.
Funny though, one of the favelas most visited by favela tours is one of the two favelas in Zona Sul not invaded by the police, Rocinha.
No, I didn't.
I guess a gringo filming those beach rats that close would loose his videocamera very quickly. Guess you'd be right. Did that guy lose his? But, not if he were filming from in beach front apartment window. Those were the days before telephone and digital cameras or else we'd have a lot more video like that to see. All I have are still shots from the eco92, some street demonstrations during the 89 election and the odd picture of a much more varied streetlife. Was a time you'd see women in the 50+ group had torn earlobes. Probably a nice niche business for some cosmetic surgeon.
http://braziltravelcenter.wordpress.com/2010/12/30/update-american-dead-in-rio-de-janeiro-brazil-apartment/
With this kind of mortal cocktail. Nobody survives. I think that he wanted to fuck all-day / all-night and took wrong ways.
Exec Talent
02-04-11, 00:59
http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/112006/more-on-spotting-atm-skimmers?mod=bb-checking_savings
This story gives me the opportunity to warn people traveling to Rio about this pizza and kilo restaurant located near Siqueira Grill. Last year, my card was skimmed there. The cashier is behind the counter and it is very dark. She took my card and turned her back to me which I thought strange at the time. A day or two later, bogus charges started to appear on my account. Working with the CC company I was able to pinpoint where the card was compromised.
RESTAURANTE FAENZA
RUA SIQUEIRA CAMPOS 18 LJ B.
COPACABANA.
http://www.faenza.com.br/
The only reason I went in the first place was one of the street touts I know gave me a discount card. Besides the skimming issue both the pizza and other food is terrible.
Another place I know where credit card skimming took place in the past was the HSBC ATMs. It was not unusual to walk in and several of them had been made unusable because the MIC reader had been superglued leaving only one usable machine (with the skimming device).
Brazil Specialist
02-04-11, 09:40
That is interesting to know. I was always wondering why we keep hearing stories about skimming at ATM machines and not at these small point of sale card readers.
Even the article you linked to doesn't mention them.
Was there a way how one could have seen or recorded you typing the pin number? Or was the machine doctored? Did she scan it on another device or do you think the device itself had a skimmer?
Germany now wants to emit all cards WITHOUT magnetic stripe, only with chip, to avoid skimming. Problem: for people who travel abroad they offer the option of ordering a magnetic stripe.
I DO like Faenza (will never pay with credit card there). I think the food is pretty decent, and the pizza is great for Rio standards. Now I like think and crispy. Getting both pizza and unlimited buffet for around 25 dollars after 6 30 pm is a great deal if you eat a lot.
My absolute favorite food place, Siqueira Grill is next door. No pizza, and no all you can eat option.
http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/112006/more-on-spotting-atm-skimmers?mod=bb-checking_savings
This story gives me the opportunity to warn people traveling to Rio about this pizza and kilo restaurant located near Siqueira Grill. Last year, my card was skimmed there. The cashier is behind the counter and it is very dark. She took my card and turned her back to me which I thought strange at the time. A day or two later, bogus charges started to appear on my account. Working with the CC company I was able to pinpoint where the card was compromised.
RESTAURANTE FAENZA
RUA SIQUEIRA CAMPOS 18 LJ B.
COPACABANA.
http://www.faenza.com.br/
The only reason I went in the first place was one of the street touts I know gave me a discount card. Besides the skimming issue both the pizza and other food is terrible.
Another place I know where credit card skimming took place in the past was the HSBC ATMs. It was not unusual to walk in and several of them had been made unusable because the MIC reader had been superglued leaving only one usable machine (with the skimming device).
The Watcher
02-06-11, 21:24
Another place I know where credit card skimming took place in the past was the HSBC ATMs. It was not unusual to walk in and several of them had been made unusable because the MIC reader had been superglued leaving only one usable machine (with the skimming device).I have an American friend who lives in Rio and he has been scammed at several HSBC ATMS. Originally, he thought it was just the one located on Princessa Isabella; therefore, he stopped using that one and going to other HSBC ATMS. He was OK for a while and then the unauthorized withdrawals started occurring again.
As a consequence of these situations, I have started bringing more cash and avoiding the use of any ATM. If I lived there, I don't know what I would do. I am, however, only a frequent visitor so this solution works for me.
Brazil Specialist
02-07-11, 09:08
i have an american friend who lives in rio and he has been scammed at several hsbc atms. originally, he thought it was just the one located on princessa isabella; therefore, he stopped using that one and going to other hsbc atms. he was ok for a while and then the unauthorized withdrawals started occurring again.
as a consequence of these situations, i have started bringing more cash and avoiding the use of any atm. if i lived there, i don't know what i would do. i am, however, only a frequent visitor so this solution works for me. very easy. don't get money from hsbc.
when i heard that hsbc has a cloning problem, i stopped using them. i always thought that banco do brasil was paranoid, because they have armed guards hanging out at their atm at all times. the are not paranoid, they are realistic. so nobody messes with their atm machines, at least not where i take money.
(note: use the atm machines with the cirrus / master card sign. the others will not work)
never had anything cloned, and lived here for decades. maybe i am lucky.
now your solution will work until you get robbed and they take your 8000 dollars. by the way, if you bring more the r$ 10 000, you need to declare or you are in violation of the law. you can be arrested, and your money confirep001ed.
they usually do this with brazilian residents. a while ago one such guy dies in jail, when they tried to get his atm pin numbers out of him. the us$ 30 000 he had never showed up again.
Alagoas is the #1 most violent state in Brazil, not Sampa or Rio, according to this latest report. Go figure!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/portuguese/br/2011/02/alagoas-e-1-estado-no-ranking.html
Also note some secondary report stating a significant increase in deaths among black men vs. white man and young black men vs. young white men.
Exec Talent
03-29-11, 04:36
Others please feel free to chime in, but I would say that Rio is the safest it has been in 10+ years. The guy who was worried about traveling alone, shouldn't. It also seems that there are fewer homeless on the street these days. I think you will probably see more in DC than in Rio.
Others please feel free to chime in, but I would say that Rio is the safest it has been in 10+ years. The guy who was worried about traveling alone, shouldn't. It also seems that there are fewer homeless on the street these days. I think you will probably see more in DC than in Rio.Totally agree, Rio is a lot safer now than even 5 years ago. Copacabana, since Help was closed, is so much safer it is like night and day.
Having said that once you get out of Zona Sul life is still cheap and there is no line between the criminals and the police-they are one and the same!
Today a gunman, an ex-student, killed 12 people in a school in Zona Oeste in Rio.
School shootings might be common in the US, but as far as I know they are very rare in Brazil. Sad!
http://odia.terra.com.br/portal/rio/html/2011/4/autoridades_confirmam_mortes_de_criancas_apos_invasao_de_escola_em_realengo_156200.html
Poucolouco
04-08-11, 01:49
today a gunman, an ex-student, killed 12 people in a school in zona oeste in rio.
school shootings might be common in the us, but as far as i know they are very rare in brazil. sad!
http://odia.terra.com.br/portal/rio/html/2011/4/autoridades_confirmam_mortes_de_criancas_apos_invasao_de_escola_em_realengo_156200.htmlschool shootings are on the rise in many countries, including finland, germany and the us in the past year. while shootings are not commonplace in brasil, violence is progressively spreading. unesco has stated that brazilian youths, particularly those from 15 to 24 years-old, are the portion of the population most exposed to violence, whether as victims, or agents. in terms of deaths that are caused by what are called external factors (homicides, traffic accidents and suicides,) the quantitative data corresponding to the youth age groups are so high that they place brazilian indices as the third highest in the world. in rio de janeiro, the secretary of security reports that, from 2008 through 2010 larcenies fell 18 percent while violent crimes grew by 22 percent, and [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) increased by 39 percent. amnesty international reported in november that rio police had killed over 500 people so far this year in so-called 'acts of resistance'. large swaths of the city continue to be dominated by paramilitary police groups. brazilian schools are not immune to this violence and are often transformed into dangerous places that harbor robberies, homicides, sexual abuse, threats and property damage. yes sperto, this is a very sad part of brasil that we don't often see nor hear of.
Brazilian schools are not immune to this violence and are often transformed into dangerous places that harbor robberies, homicides, sexual abuse, threats and property damage. Yes Sperto, this is a very sad part of Brasil that we don't often see nor hear of.Violence in Brazil doesn't surprise me. What surprised me is that a crazy school shooting occured in Brazil. School shootings are trademarks of violence in the USA.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/School_shooting
What surprised me is that a crazy school shooting occured in Brazil.I'm not surprised any more considering the gunman's religious belief.
http://noticiasdatvbrasil.wordpress.com/2011/04/07/atirador-que-matou-criancas-em-realengo-seria-radical-islamico-este-seria-primeiro-atentado-terrorista-no-brasil/
Totally agree, Rio is a lot safer now than even 5 years ago. Copacabana, since Help was closed, is so much safer it is like night and day.
Having said that once you get out of Zona Sul life is still cheap and there is no line between the criminals and the police-they are one and the same!To a certain extent, I must agree with you. Lately, there have been no reports of gringos being thrown out of an apto. window...by their namorada's amante, so, it is a good year for us. Gracias de Deus.
Others please feel free to chime in, but I would say that Rio is the safest it has been in 10+ years. The guy who was worried about traveling alone, shouldn't. It also seems that there are fewer homeless on the street these days. I think you will probably see more in DC than in Rio.
Totally agree, Rio is a lot safer now than even 5 years ago. Copacabana, since Help was closed, is so much safer it is like night and day.
To a certain extent, I must agree with you. Lately, there have been no reports of gringos being thrown out of an apto. window.by their namorada's amante, so, it is a good year for us. Gracias de Deus.Safer from crime perhaps, but watchout for the exploding manhole covers! It's gotten so bad in the last 12 months, Oglobo has created a Google map:
http://maps.google.com.br/maps/ms?hl=pt-br&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=205778415523443339013.0004a01cae33fa4d37ff6&ll=-22.962819-43. 212662&spn=0. 067491, 0.110378&t=h&z=13
Viewing the map, one can see the explosions are occurring everywhere in Centro and Copa.
Four exploded yesterday in Centro, corner of Rua the Assembleia and Avenida Nilo Peçanha. One exploded today in Copa, corner of Dias the Rocha and Barata Ribeiro.
April of this year, one exploded in the middle of Av N. S. De Copcabana, near Rua Bolivar that injured 5, and damaged 2 cars The most serious explosion occurred in Copa in January 2010, which burned two American tourist, requiring a 45 day hospital stay for one of them. She had burns covering 80% of her body. Her husband had 35% burns.
At the beginning of the month, Rio's Public Ministry rejected a proposed fine, by Light, Rio's public utility company, of $R100, 000 for injury or death, as it did not cover damages. If Light does not come up with a new proposal by this Thursday, the Public Ministry will seek an injunction asking for $R1 million per each new explosion.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2011/07/05/area-em-copacabana-esta-isolada-apos-tampa-de-bueiro-voar-tecnicos-encontram-gas-em-camara-subterranea-no-centro-924835180.asp
Exec Talent
07-05-11, 21:38
Safer from crime perhaps, but watchout for the exploding manhole covers! It's gotten so bad in the last 12 months, Oglobo has created a Google map:
http://maps.google.com.br/maps/ms?hl=pt-br&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=205778415523443339013.0004a01cae33fa4d37ff6&ll=-22.962819-43. 212662&spn=0. 067491, 0.110378&t=h&z=13
Viewing the map, one can see the explosions are occurring everywhere in Centro and Copa.Thanks for pointing this danger out. I have gotten in the habit of walking wide of the electrical manhole covers. They either have LIGHT on them or a lightning bolt. You can use Google Street View to get a better idea where some of the ones that have exploded are located (though the photos of Copa are dated).
Poucolouco
07-05-11, 22:17
Safer from crime perhaps, but watchout .
Two weeks ago a 24 year-old French tourist fell off the tram crossing the Arcos de Lapa viaduct. He was standing on the stirrup of the tram attempting to take photos of his girlfriend and fell to the platform. He then slipped between a badly installed fence and the bridge, and plummeted to his death. Before the police arrived, his wallet and camera were stolen by kids in the plaza below.
Safer from crime perhaps, but watchout for the exploding manhole covers!I experienced an exploding manhole cover in March, when leaving Cinê Roxy on Rua Bolivar. Big explosion and lots of smoke. Everybody ran fast as hell.
LittleTruths
07-05-11, 23:36
Two weeks ago a 24 year-old French tourist fell off the tram crossing the Arcos de Lapa viaduct. He was standing on the stirrup of the tram attempting to take photos of his girlfriend and fell to the platform. He then slipped between a badly installed fence and the bridge, and plummeted to his death. Before the police arrived, his wallet and camera were stolen by kids in the plaza below.A Classic. Alright, one could argue that he didn't really need that shit any longer but still.
I experienced an exploding manhole cover in March, when leaving Cinê Roxy on Rua Bolivar. Big explosion and lots of smoke. Everybody ran fast as hell.If you smell gas or see smoke, best to get out of the area. Don't do what these people did in the video.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/video/2011/23751/
Light has agreed to pay $R100, 000 fine for each explosion, it was reported in Oglobo today. So take comfort in that. Light will also be forced to rebuild four thousand underground chambers in the next two years with centralized monitoring and the use of electronic sensors for gas, water and human presence to prevent further accidents. I guess the rate will be going up.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2011/07/05/light-aceita-pagar-100-mil-por-bueiro-que-explodir-na-cidade-provocando-danos-feridos-ou-mortos-924835180.asp
Two weeks ago a 24 year-old French tourist fell off the tram crossing the Arcos de Lapa viaduct. He was standing on the stirrup of the tram attempting to take photos of his girlfriend and fell to the platform. He then slipped between a badly installed fence and the bridge, and plummeted to his death. Before the police arrived, his wallet and camera were stolen by kids in the plaza below.I used to have a sudden concern when I saw kids hanging off the tram as it went near the places where it's a sheer drop, then I breathed a sigh of relief,"It's ok, they're Brasilian kids, not Americans." (ie, they weren't raised in a nanny state). The French used to have some sense of life and even a sense of how to stay alive. Nowadays that country has had the self-awareness of its citizens as corrupted and diminished as much as the rest of Europe and almost as much as most of America.
Personally I like cliffs where you can sit on the edge and swing your feet. Without a safety barrier and without a notice spoiling the view or a cop telling me I'll fall off and he'll get blamed. And I like the tram the way it is. I would, however, draw the line if the kids starting pushing French tourists off the tram in order to get their wallets! .
Please use.
this link (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?2192-Rio-de-Janeiro-Reports&p=1193621&viewfull=1#post1193621)
For some assorted security tips from Lorenzo, myself and a few others, and hope they help.
Poucolouco
09-27-11, 01:37
Last week in the Rio thread I had posted to be aware of potential roberies when staying at hostels. It seems that bandits have resumed raids on these vulnerable establishments. On Sunday a gang raided the Hostel Eco Arco Verde at Ladeira do Leme 250, up the hill from Metro Arco Verde. The bandits invaded rooms and kept 26 people hostage while they stole money, computers, cellular phones, jewels and tickets to Rock in Rio. After herding the victims in to the bathrooms they fled in a stolen car. Be careful out there.
Gas explosion in restaurant I Centro killed 3 and injured 17.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2011/10/13/restaurante-que-explodiu-no-centro-funcionava-ha-tres-anos-com-alvara-provisorio-da-prefeitura-nunca-foi-inspecionado-por-bombeiros-925580104.asp
Hey guys,
I came across a very impressive blog showing that even in a sexual playground like Brazil life can be dangerous for local 'working girls'. Take a look.
http://p4pnightmare.********.com/
It covers cases of violence from many years ago to nowadays. Sad but true.
Gas explosion in restaurant I Centro killed 3 and injured 17.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/mat/2011/10/13/restaurante-que-explodiu-no-centro-funcionava-ha-tres-anos-com-alvara-provisorio-da-prefeitura-nunca-foi-inspecionado-por-bombeiros-925580104.aspFuck, that Video is Crazy RIP to those Killed.
Hey guys,
I came across a very impressive blog showing that even in a sexual playground like Brazil life can be dangerous for local 'working girls'. Take a look.
http://p4pnightmare.********.com/
It covers cases of violence from many years ago to nowadays. Sad but true.Very sad indeed. Poor girls.
Note: the site is quite gore.
life can be dangerous for local 'working girls'.Not only for working girls. Brasil has a sad record of domestic violence. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 43 % of the women in Brasil have suffered physical or sexual violence at some point during their lives, and this number comes near 58 % in the poorest areas (favelas and periferias).
Sperto,
This may demystify Brazil as a land where everything is possible and any bad consequence of this liberality can happen. Among Brazil's serious problems there is violence against prostitutes. And you're right. The site is really shocking.
Yes Prosal,
You're right. In cities like Recife and Fortaleza we have high rates of domestic violence against women besides these 2 cities are well known as 'sexual playgrounds' for foreign, specially, europeans. Perhaps the local guys do not react well to this reality or something like this.
In Oglobo today: Operation Clean Plates, (Operação Pratos Limpos.) Agents of the Bureau of Consumer Protection (Decon) seized Thursday afternoon, about ten pounds of expired food or without specification of validity, in three Japanese restaurants in Zona Sul. Sushi Leblon, I Piatti (in Botafogo) and Tenkai (Ipanema) were booked for a crime against consumer relations. After paying bail, Ten times the minimum wage, the three were released. The houses continued functioning normally.
According to police, the hygiene of the kitchens of the three restaurants was considered satisfactory. At I Piatti, which also serves other types of Japanese cooking, were seized sausage, buffalo mozzarella and chester (?) At Sushi Leblon, squid, tuna, pasta, shrimp, salad and butter. And in Tenkai, mushrooms, squid, chicken hearts, crab, steak matured, anchovies and salmon. All this material had expired dates, according to the delegate.
The spokesperson of Tenkai said that the house is reshaping the rules of their food-finding. The restaurant admits there was negligence by of one of the chefs. I Piatti explained that the police action occurred before there was the labeling of food and denied that the mozzarella was expired. Sushi Leblon reported that the visit occurred at 10:50a, arrival of many kitchen staff. According to the administration of the restaurant, the seized food was being processed and portioned, and there was not enough time to identify all items."We worked for 25 years with excellence in quality. Ten years ago we received technical advice from Covisa, which specializes in food safety, with 17 years experience in the market. Our kitchen is open to visitors who have questions about our quality standards.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/tres-restaurantes-japoneses-da-zona-sul-com-alimentos-vencidos-3366533
Always be careful when eating Sushi, or anything raw. Make sure it smells FRESH. (insert big grin smiley here)
BTW, chester: Genetically modified Fowl or bird, whose breast and thighs are exceptionally developed, and is used to obtain large pieces of white meat and whole, like the beef, pork etc. According to DicionáRio Aluete.
http://aulete.uol.com.br/site.php?mdl=aulete_digital&op=loadVerbete&pesquisa=1&palavra=chester
Not in Rio, but in Paraiba.
Three Finnish murdered.
http://g1.globo.com/paraiba/noticia/2011/12/tres-corpos-encontrados-no-litoral-da-pb-sao-de-filandenses-diz-policia.html
http://ftadecamocim.********.com/2011/12/tres-finlandeses-sao-assassinados-na.html
********: b l o g s p o t
Exec Talent
12-04-11, 18:59
BTW, chester: Genetically modified Fowl or bird, whose breast and thighs are exceptionally developedI have seen chesters strutting their stuff right outside the gyms on NS. Wait, that is steriods not genetics.
While there certainly are sanitation and food handling issues in the restuarants in Rio, for the most part, I would rather eat in them than in some Asian countries I have visited. My guess is the government thinks if they cite some of the more established places that the lesser ones will also get into line.
After a 3 month investigation, DEAT, (Delegacia Especial de Atendimento ao Turismo) arrested a gang of 12 garotas de programas and 4 men. They specialized in robbing tourist by drugging them, using the 'Boa noite cinderela' drug and stealing credit cards. The girls would picking up guys by offering them a low price for sex with two or three of them at one time. While the guy is busy with two of the girls in his apartment, the third takes the credit card. She then says that she is going to go buy beer or rubbers and leaves to give the credit cards to her husband or boyfriend waiting downstairs. He then goes on a spending spree, until the account is drained. If they can't rob the guy that way, he's them drugged and robbed. The group was working in the bars in Zona Sul and Lapa. Some of the women possessed their own portable credit card processing machines to drain the victims accounts. Fifty undercover police were used to investigate the gang. Police are still seeking seven other members of the ring.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/policia-prende-16-acusados-de-aplicar-golpe-boa-noite-cinderela-5477530
http://odia.ig.com.br/portal/rio/policiais-infiltrados-em-bares-desarticulam-esquema-de-golpe-contra-turistas-1.462813
Pics of the Wall of Shame:
News report about the crime mentioned below.
http://globotv.globo.com/rede-globo/rjtv-1a-edicao/t/edicoes/v/presos-15-acusados-de-aplicar-o-golpe-boa-noite-cinderela-em-turistas/2040810/
Pics of the Wall of Shame:You named it rightly. The Hall of Shame. How someone in his right mind can fly halfway around the world to Brasil to fuck such gorgon medusas is beyond me. (rolleyes).
I always stick to the Termas and Prives in Rio de Janeiro. Independent GDP's tend to be unpredictable, sometimes dangerous. Even if recommended by someone you trust, good service is a roll of the dice and much less your safety. They tend to be lazy and looking for a lot of cash for little or no service at all in some instances.
At least in the controlled environment of a prive or a terma, you have some sort of supervision, and if you make a connection with the GDP, and you feel you can trust her, THEN invite her to your hotel or apartment for better service. Not before and even that is not guaranteed either, but the odds are much better.
This scam has been going on for a few years and they are not the only ones doing this disservice to the hard working GDP's in Rio de Janeiro. According to the report they haven't found 7 suspected members of this gang and believe me, they are more of these leaches out there than these clowns. So for those of you in love with Balcony, and independent GDP's, be very aware of the dangers of you face when she works individually or in a pair and they work by themselves. It is just too risky IMHO.
News report about the crime mentioned below.
http://globotv.globo.com/rede-globo/rjtv-1a-edicao/t/edicoes/v/presos-15-acusados-de-aplicar-o-golpe-boa-noite-cinderela-em-turistas/2040810/
Wolvenvacht
07-15-12, 17:35
Some of the women possessed their own portable credit card processing machines to drain the victims accounts.And how did they get the pincode for the credit card?
In Oglobo today: Operation Clean Plates, (Operação Pratos Limpos.) Agents of the Bureau of Consumer Protection (Decon) seized Thursday afternoon, about ten pounds of expired food or without specification of validity, in three Japanese restaurants in Zona Sul. Sushi Leblon, I Piatti (in Botafogo) and Tenkai (Ipanema) were booked for a crime against consumer relations. After paying bail, Ten times the minimum wage, the three were released. The houses continued functioning normally.
According to police, the hygiene of the kitchens of the three restaurants was considered satisfactory. At I Piatti, which also serves other types of Japanese cooking, were seized sausage, buffalo mozzarella and chester (?) At Sushi Leblon, squid, tuna, pasta, shrimp, salad and butter. And in Tenkai, mushrooms, squid, chicken hearts, crab, steak matured, anchovies and salmon. All this material had expired dates, according to the delegate.
The spokesperson of Tenkai said that the house is reshaping the rules of their food-finding. The restaurant admits there was negligence by of one of the chefs. I Piatti explained that the police action occurred before there was the labeling of food and denied that the mozzarella was expired. Sushi Leblon reported that the visit occurred at 10:50a, arrival of many kitchen staff. According to the administration of the restaurant, the seized food was being processed and portioned, and there was not enough time to identify all items."We worked for 25 years with excellence in quality. Ten years ago we received technical advice from Covisa, which specializes in food safety, with 17 years experience in the market. Our kitchen is open to visitors who have questions about our quality standards.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/tres-restaurantes-japoneses-da-zona-sul-com-alimentos-vencidos-3366533
Always be careful when eating Sushi, or anything raw. Make sure it smells FRESH. (insert big grin smiley here)
BTW, chester: Genetically modified Fowl or bird, whose breast and thighs are exceptionally developed, and is used to obtain large pieces of white meat and whole, like the beef, pork etc. According to DicionáRio Aluete.
http://aulete.uol.com.br/site.php?mdl=aulete_digital&op=loadVerbete&pesquisa=1&palavra=chesterThank you for this report. I was actually thinking about trying out Sushi Leblon today (Have not been there before, and will never be there after reading this report) , followed by a cigar at Esche Cafe. Thanks again for the report.
And how did they get the pincode for the credit card?According to one of the reports, they got the pin code when the Mark paid his bill at the bar. If I understand correctly, the report mentions that the undercover police saw the garotas slipping the mark a "mickey" at the bar. Once the mark becomes disoriented by the drug, the garota can easily see him enter his pincode. If that didn't work, after he was drugged, they search his personal effects for it, (computer, personal papers.)
For the US slang challenged members:
"Mickey" shortened form for a "mickey finn." Used to describe surepticiously slipping someone drugs, poison, laxative, etc. Usually in one's drink. Commonly believed to be named after notorious Chicago pickpocket, thief and bartender. Mickey Finn.
"Mark" (noun) A person identified as an easy target, or "sucker". A mark is usually being cheated out of money. It's origin is from old English traveling carnivals from the late 1800s to early 1900s, where workers would refer to people paying to see their made up shows and games a "mark". not from urban gangsters like most people think.
Remember that, there'll be a quiz later.
You named it rightly. The Hall of Shame. How someone in his right mind can fly halfway around the world to Brasil to fuck such gorgon medusas is beyond me. (rolleyes).They can always say they were DRUGGED out of their mind. But then again, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Always be careful when eating Sushi, or anything raw. Make sure it smells FRESH. (insert big grin smiley here)I love sushi and had some at the Siquiera Grill during my very first trip to Rio and got sick as hell! I was about half way through the trip if I recall correctly and was afraid the rest of it would be ruined. Lucky for me it only lasted for one day. No more sushi for me in Rio!
Ipanema Carioca
07-15-12, 22:26
And how did they get the pincode for the credit card?Torture! Torture is a known tactic. And they will hold you until they get money!
All ATM / Credit cards bear the Mastercard / Visa / AMEX logo meaning that, unless you are going to an ATM, the pin code really isn't needed. They can get the funds using the card's 4 digit code clearly mark on each of the cards. Remember they were using computers so it was easy to circumvent the pin code barrier to obtain funds. As long as you have the card's 4 digit code which IS on the card, that safeguard is useless.
Torture! Torture is a known tactic. And they will hold you until they get money!
Torture! Torture is a known tactic. And they will hold you until they get money!People that do not live in Brazil have just no idea of the level of potential violence there. Cariocas and Paulistas are paranoiac about security. I lived with a carioca lawyer for 3 years, who was studying in order to become a judge in Rio de Janeiro. I became a very good friend to several carioca judges. I am also connected to the director of corporate security of a major European multinational company based in São Paulo. Some of the stories they tell me are hair-raising indeed.
Exec Talent
09-15-12, 03:15
My biggest concern for real sustained Brazilian economic growth always has been domestic inflation. We know as foreigners how it hits us, but imagine those Brazilians making the minimum salary. With all the construction going on there still is a lot of work for unskilled laborers, but many are feeling squeezed. Be careful if you walk the tunnels between Botafogo and Copacabana. Almost daily reports of knife welding robbers with the only police presence usually at the Rio Sul mall.
Exec Talent
10-12-12, 04:29
Over the last couple years, those of us who make frequent visits to Rio have notice a significant drop in petty crimes. Well, that seems to have ended. I am hearing about and witnessing more petty crimes than I have in recent memory. Just yesterday right at the Metro stop in Botafogo a guy's motorcycle was stolen in broad daylight. The owner tried to pursue the thief but he got away.
At least 245 people killed in a fire in a boate in Santa maria, Rio Grande do Sul.
The security closed the main entrance so people wouldn't leave without paying their bills.
http://oglobo.globo.com/pais/porta-principal-da-boate-kiss-estava-trancada-na-hora-do-incendio-afirma-comandante-dos-bombeiros-7408973
I hope the responsible people get a hard penalty.
At least 245 people killed in a fire in a boate in Santa maria, Rio Grande do Sul.
The security closed the main entrance so people wouldn't leave without paying their bills.
http://oglobo.globo.com/pais/porta-principal-da-boate-kiss-estava-trancada-na-hora-do-incendio-afirma-comandante-dos-bombeiros-7408973
I hope the responsible people get a hard penalty.I saw the story this morning. Somebody needs to be charged with and convicted of manslaughter at the very least.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/27/brazil-nightclub-fire-santa-maria-kiss_n_2560839.html?icid=maing-grid7|main5|dl1|sec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D262242
ProfHacker
03-04-13, 02:41
I go to Rio for a few weeks at a time for business, multiple times per year and never had any problems in Rio so far except some petty fraud, like taxi drivers taking forever to get to destination and not activating the meter, giving you fake change and I noticed some ATM skimming devices in the tourist areas as they are everywhere in my country, and I know what to look for when using an ATM. I always quickly check for small cameras or fake attachments before putting in my card. If there's a skimming device I don't rip it out, or make a scene I just walk away because chances are some shady dudes hanging around watching the ATM to retrieve their device. I don't use my regular bank card anyways, I use a prepaid reloadable ATM card with a fixed amount on it so if it gets stolen I don't care. If I run out of money I just reload it online instantly.
Lately I've been using bitcoins instead of ATMs because of daily limit, shady people around the ATM, and skimming devices. Also exchange rate is pretty high when using ATMs. With bitcoins I go on localbitcoins website, find somebody in Rio to meet at a trusted safe public cafe, and then we discreetly exchange money while I transfer bitcoins from my phone right in front of him / her. I pay no ridiculous bank fees this way. Almost everytime the bitcoin guy is also speaking good english or Russian so we go out together and party it up and he becomes my portuguese wingman so I can meet girls. We go to local clubs, I buy all the drinks and always meet 10/10 non pro girls who don't charge anything but I take them out shopping anyways the next day because they're fun to be around and I get laid twice.
Be careful about girls that approach you at nighttime in Copacabana. A couple of nights ago a friend of mine was walking home alone after partying. Somewhere between Balcony and Copacabana Palace two girls approached him. Both girls went directly up to him and started kissing him. He wasn't sober and let it happened. Obviously the girls were minors.
In seconds a policía militar turned up. The PM checked his I'd and was very angry. He wanted to bring him to his car and go the police station. My friend managed to stay calm, he explained what happened (he speaks fluent portugues) and refused to go with the police. After a couple of minutes the police gave up and let him go. No bribe involved.
It's very possible that it could have been a setup with the girls working together with the police, as a way of trying to extort money.
P. S Just for the record, my friend is a MILF lover and almost never goes with women younger than 28 years.
some really bad propaganda for rio with the upcoming world cup and olympics. two foreign tourists were robbed, beaten and raped on a minibus in rio de janeiro.
the van was normally used to transport passengers from niteroi to são gonçalo. on saturday the bandits (the driver, cobrador and another guy that entered the van later) decided to rob passengers. they used the van to pick up passengers in copacabana. among the passengers were a couple of young foreign tourists (nationality not revealed by the police) that were going to lapa. the bandits robbed all the passengers. in botafogo all the passengers except the tourist couple were told to leave the van. the van headed to niteroi. the male tourist was handcuffed in the van and badly beaten with a steel stick, while his gf was repeatedly raped. the couple were hold for 6 hours. the bandits used their credit card to buy drinks and to withdraw money at a banco do brasil. when the card had reached it's limits the bandits went to the apartment of the couple, in copacabana. the woman was forced to enter the apartment to pick up more credit cards. then they went to são gonçalo to make more withdrawals and buy more drinks. later they released the couple on the highway in itaborai.
police has caught two of the bandits and are still looking for the third one.
a week before the bandits robbed and raped another passenger, a brazilian woman.
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2013/03/presos-por-estupro-em-van-no-rj-teriam-feito-outra-vitima-diz-policia.html
http://www.cmjornal.xl.pt/detalhe/noticias/internacional/mundo/brasil-turista-violada-horas-em-falso-autocarro?npagina=2#comentarios
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-21990788
In seconds a policía militar turned up. The PM checked his I'd and was very angry. He wanted to bring him to his car and go the police station. My friend managed to stay calm, he explained what happened (he speaks fluent portugues) and refused to go with the police. After a couple of minutes the police gave up and let him go. No bribe involved.How did he refuse to go with the police to the police station? That is a powerful secret that I am sure everyone on here would need. I didn't even know you had the ability to tell the police "No, I am not getting in the car or going anywhere with you" and not suffer a few baton knots upside the head.
How did he refuse to go with the police to the police station? That is a powerful secret that I am sure everyone on here would need. I didn't even know you had the ability to tell the police "No, I am not getting in the car or going anywhere with you" and not suffer a few baton knots upside the head.My friend told me he explained to the police that he had done nothing wrong and that he refused to go with the police. The police didn't use any force trying to bring him to the car. Maybe because he believed him?
Poucolouco
04-02-13, 16:36
some really bad propaganda for rio with the upcoming world cup and olympics. two foreign tourists were robbed, beaten and raped on a minibus in rio de janeiro.
police has caught two of the bandits and are still looking for the third one.
a week before the bandits robbed and raped another passenger, a brazilian woman.
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2013/03/presos-por-estupro-em-van-no-rj-teriam-feito-outra-vitima-diz-policia.html
http://www.cmjornal.xl.pt/detalhe/noticias/internacional/mundo/brasil-turista-violada-horas-em-falso-autocarro?npagina=2#comentarios
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-21990788they arrested the third suspect today and all three suspects are being transferred to bangu prison this afternoon. locals are outraged that the police did nothing to react to the first victim of this trio more than a week ago, however they were able to track them down within 12 hours of the attack on a foreigner. the brazilian girl's complaints were not given much credence because she was a poor black girl from the favela. this disgusting performance by the police has attracted much attention in the press and resulted in two police officers being fired. also other victims of the gang have come forward since the oglobo reports began to air on tv.
the couple, studying in rio, were a american girl and a french guy.
http://noticias.uol.com.br/cotidiano/ultimas-noticias/2013/04/02/namorado-de-turista-estuprada-no-rio-reconhece-3-suspeito-de-crime.htm
hopefully the three fat [CodeWord127] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord127) get the treatment they deserve in prison.
http://radioitaperunafm.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/suspeitos-de-estuprar-mulheres-no-rio.jpg
i feel sorry for the brazilian girl who got raped a week before the couple. the police didn't care to investigate her case good enough.
it's gone global. i was surprised to see a report of the arrest of the third suspect today on chicago midday tv news. in some reports, the attack is being compared with the fatal december beating and gang [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) of a young woman on a new delhi bus in india. i wonder how the french are reporting it.
this attack plus the indefinite closing of a 2016 olympics stadium, because of structural problems with its roof, has given rio a major pr problem. it will be interesting to see how rio responds.
Be careful about girls that approach you at nighttime in Copacabana. A couple of nights ago a friend of mine was walking home alone after partying. Somewhere between Balcony and Copacabana Palace two girls approached him. Both girls went directly up to him and started kissing him. He wasn't sober and let it happened. Obviously the girls were minors.
In seconds a policía militar turned up. The PM checked his I'd and was very angry. He wanted to bring him to his car and go the police station. My friend managed to stay calm, he explained what happened (he speaks fluent portugues) and refused to go with the police. After a couple of minutes the police gave up and let him go. No bribe involved.
It's very possible that it could have been a setup with the girls working together with the police, as a way of trying to extort money.
P. S Just for the record, my friend is a MILF lover and almost never goes with women younger than 28 years.Interesting they were doing that with the drugs at one time, You buy it then policia pops out of nowhere and gets the bribe.
Poucolouco
04-02-13, 23:16
the couple, studying in rio, were a american girl and a french guy.
http://noticias.uol.com.br/cotidiano/ultimas-noticias/2013/04/02/namorado-de-turista-estuprada-no-rio-reconhece-3-suspeito-de-crime.htm
hopefully the three fat [CodeWord127] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord127) get the treatment they deserve in prison.
http://radioitaperunafm.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/suspeitos-de-estuprar-mulheres-no-rio.jpg
i feel sorry for the brazilian girl who got raped a week before the couple. the police didn't care to investigate her case good enough.bangu prison is well known for serving out prison justice. i hope the three fat youngsters get their salads tossed before the week is out. they need to learn what it's like to be on the receiving end of a violent [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) and a tire iron beating. the main offenders on the part of the police were two female officers who decided independently that the brasilian girl was a puta who didn't deserve police support. they were fired yesterday.
everyone involved in this disgusting situation has brought shame on brasil which will be hard to live down.
french boyfriend what a cheapskate no taxi, makes his girl ride in a piece of merd van. other report says he let himself get handcuffed, watched the assault, then didn't stop his girlfriend go back getting another credit card and getting raped some more. [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) assaults happen every day all over this city. story here is girl picked a rosel, err loser.
more bad pr for rio. within a week there have been robbery and [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) in a van, a onibus crashing and killing 7 passengers and now a group of 9 tourists robbed.
two days ago 9 german tourists, a guide and a driver were travelling in a van, passing through floresta the tijuca. the van was intercepted by two cars with 6 armed bandits. they robbed money, electronic equipments, cellular phones and documents.
http://extra.globo.com/noticias/rio/nove-turistas-alemaes-sao-assaltados-na-floresta-da-tijuca-8027980.html
http://noticias.r7.com/videos/turistas-alemaes-sofrem-assalto-na-floresta-da-tijuca-no-rio/idmedia/515f62a41d5060c1a637fcbd.html
Poucolouco
04-06-13, 23:27
more bad pr for rio. within a week there have been robbery and [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) in a van, a onibus crashing and killing 7 passengers and now a group of 9 tourists robbed.
two days ago 9 german tourists, a guide and a driver were travelling in a van, passing through floresta the tijuca. the van was intercepted by two cars with 6 armed bandits. they robbed money, electronic equipments, cellular phones and documents.
http://extra.globo.com/noticias/rio/nove-turistas-alemaes-sao-assaltados-na-floresta-da-tijuca-8027980.html
http://noticias.r7.com/videos/turistas-alemaes-sofrem-assalto-na-floresta-da-tijuca-no-rio/idmedia/515f62a41d5060c1a637fcbd.htmlthree bandits, armed with revolvers robbed the passengers on an onibus travelling from jacarepagua to the village of mare on the yellow line at 9. p. m on friday.
normally this is routine crime but this week it has been piling up.
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2013/04/onibus-e-assaltado-na-linha-amarela-no-rio.html
Poucolouco
06-02-13, 21:05
a german tourist and his friend went to visit rocinha after visiting cristo redentor. visiting rocinha is no problem, specially not after it became occupied by upp.
however the german tourist had the absolute brilliant idea to take photos of armed bandits. he got rewarded by a bullit in his thorax.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/turista-baleado-teria-feito-fotos-de-criminosos-armados-na-rocinha-8556111
this is bad pr for rio, but imo unfair pr. the german guy was acting extremely stupid so he has to take the consequences.
you are right, bravo, the upp has moved in to rocinha, and it is not that large of an area to police (less than a square mile.) driving through sao goncalo and rocinha you can see small groups of police in some areas but certainly not the whole favela. one should not develop a false sense of security because of the police presence. as the hard core trafficants have cleared out, a new generation of teen age thugs has developed. under brasilian law these ratos are immune from adult prosecution. the courts put them back on the street as soon as they are arrested. they are immature and quick to resort to violence. the upp has driven out the big time drug dealers but they have not yet tamed the new generation of child bandits.
a 16 year old mini-bandit turned himself in to the police.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/menor-confessa-***-atirado-em-turista-volta-atras-em-depoimento-8565958the kid claims he was coerced. he was accompanied to the police station by an unidentified attorney and a social services provider from the church of pastor markos pereira. pastor marcos, leader of the house of god in the last days (adud) , was arrested on may 07, on charges of [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) of congregants, money laundering and drug trafficking. excellent social counsel! competent authorities will study the best way to apply the principle of full protection to the teenager. with this kind of representation, he'll be back on the streets in a week.
http://globotv.globo.com/rede-globo/bom-dia-rio/v/pastor-marcos-pereira-ja-esta-em-um-presidio-de-bangu/2562979/
#
the three dudes that raped the american woman and beat her french boyfriend in a stolen commuter van, mar 30, 13 were sentenced today. the driver and his co-defendant were sentenced to 49 years. 3 months in prison. the third dude who did not beat on the frenchie, was sentenced to 21 years. 7 months for [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) and extortion. the fourth member of the group, a 14 year old, will be sentenced by a juvenile court. these long prison sentences are misleading as the maximum that can be imposed in brazil is 30 years. last year, brazil's legislature was considering increasing it to 40 years. these guys will not serve all that time. more than likely they'll be out in less than 20 years, maybe 10.
i'm reminded of the candelária massacre in rio, on the night of july 23, 1993. eight homeless juveniles were killed by possibly 9 off duty pm death squad."only three were ever convicted and imprisoned, according to a report from amnesty international. nelson oliveira dos santos cunha received 261 years in jail in november 1996; marcos aurelio dias alcantara got 204 years in 1998; and marcos vinicius borges emanuel was sentenced to 300 years in 2003 (a full decade after the monstrous crimes). but santos cunha and alcantara have since been released from prison, while emanuel got a pardon in june of last year. in 2013, an appeals court overturned that ruling, rendering emanuel a fugitive from the law."
http://www.ibtimes.com/candelaria-church-massacre-brazil-marks-20th-anniversary-police-murders-homeless-street-children
a quirk in brazilian law says that anyone who gets a sentence of twenty or more years in jail, automatically qualifies for a second trial.
the juvenile will come out the best, as he'll be held until he becomes 21 years old. he'll be sent to an overcrowded, understaffed juvenile facility, where he can easily escape. no one will go looking for him.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/condenado-bando-que-atacou-turistas-estrangeiros-em-van-9549176
there's been reports of the government wanting to demilitarize the policia militar, as if that would solve all their criminal problems. brazil needs to change there archaic criminal and juvenile laws too.
I arrived 12/18. Used an HSBC ATM at the airport to access my HSBC account. Could only withdraw $ R300, even thought it displayed $R1000 daily limit. I was able to withdraw more Reals later that day from a Banco do Brasil ATM in Copa. Today I received a fraud alert email from HSBC. On 12/19 money was withdraw from my account in Santiago, Chile. And earlier today more money was withdrawn here in Rio. Rat Bastards work quick! Last time this happened, fraudulent charges were made after I left Rio. Not sure which ATM was the culprit.
I arrived 12/18. Used an HSBC ATM at the airport to access my HSBC account. Could only withdraw $ R300, even thought it displayed $R1000 daily limit. I was able to withdraw more Reals later that day from a Banco do Brasil ATM in Copa. Today I received a fraud alert email from HSBC. On 12/19 money was withdraw from my account in Santiago, Chile. And earlier today more money was withdrawn here in Rio. Rat Bastards work quick! Last time this happened, fraudulent charges were made after I left Rio. Not sure which ATM was the culprit.I have heard of others having trouble with that HSBC ATM machine at GIG airport. They must have attached a card skimmer there. I would definitely avoid that machine in the future!
LukeSkywalker
12-21-13, 04:56
the neighborhoods and people in rio always give me the creep, like walking through a jungle full of dangerous animals.
on the contrary, i feel safe and happy with people in buenos aires. argentinians are a lot more romantic and light-hearted. even cops sometimes kid around with tourists. i always enjoy their companies.
regarding music and dance, brazilians have their deep drum percussion from africa. their samba dance is basically quick bucking and thrushing the hips in sexual ways, just like intercourse. on the contrary, argentinian's tango music and dance are far more romantic with sweet, loving moves, alternately in slow and quick tempos.
more bad pr for rio. within a week there have been robbery and [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) in a van, a onibus crashing and killing 7 passengers and now a group of 9 tourists robbed.
two days ago 9 german tourists, a guide and a driver were travelling in a van, passing through floresta the tijuca. the van was intercepted by two cars with 6 armed bandits. they robbed money, electronic equipments, cellular phones and documents.
http://extra.globo.com/noticias/rio/nove-turistas-alemaes-sao-assaltados-na-floresta-da-tijuca-8027980.html
http://noticias.r7.com/videos/turistas-alemaes-sofrem-assalto-na-floresta-da-tijuca-no-rio/idmedia/515f62a41d5060c1a637fcbd.html
A gringo being robbed and beaten up is nothing new in Brazil. What I found interesting was how it was reported on the local news in Salvador.
Last Sunday a 26 year old german tourist was robbed in Pelourinho. A arrestão. 30 guys attacked him. He lost his camera and cell phone and got beaten up with rocks and got his nose broken.
http://noticias.r7.com/bahia/turista-alemao-e-agredido-por-30-homens-no-centro-historico-de-salvador-apos-festa-28012014
On the local news, Cidade Alerta (only shows violent news) , they told about the incident (I have no link). However the reporter thought it very strange that the gringo wasn't interested in making a police report. The reporter thought this was very suspicious. They showed a close-up film sequence in slow motion 5 times of the bloody gringo. All the time the reporter screaming about what this suspicious gringo had to hide as he didn't make a police report. Was he in Brazil illegal etc? Just to add effects they had added a peculiar voice to the film screaming "estranho" over and over again.
The result was it was no shame that the gringo got robbed and beaten up. The gringo most likely was the bad guy. I don't know anything about this gringo. Maybe he had something to hide or maybe he was too chocked to make a police report? Anyway I thought it was a very bad way of reporting about a foreign tourist getting robbed. What about the world cup? There will be thousands of gringos being robbed in Brazil, will those also be the bad guys?
I arrived 12/18. Used an HSBC ATM at the airport to access my HSBC account. Could only withdraw $ R300, even thought it displayed $R1000 daily limit. I was able to withdraw more Reals later that day from a Banco do Brasil ATM in Copa. Today I received a fraud alert email from HSBC. On 12/19 money was withdraw from my account in Santiago, Chile. And earlier today more money was withdrawn here in Rio. Rat Bastards work quick! Last time this happened, fraudulent charges were made after I left Rio. Not sure which ATM was the culprit.I report exactly the same. I used the same ATM. The very next day, cash was being drawn from my account from an ATM in Asuncion Paraguay!
i never been robbed in rio and consider it safe using common sense. however the last 4 days i witnessed three robberies in copa / leme, daytime and nighttime. yesterday evening when i crossed av princess isabel with my gf there were a guy on a bike coming up to us from behind. propably interested in my gfs purse as i wear nothing in my pockets (money inside my bermudas). i heard him coming and stopped and turned to him and he turned his bike and instead robbed a smartphone from a guy walking 10 metres behind us. he hit the guy and grabbed his phone and speed away on the bike. just in front of the police cabin (in the middle of the avenida).
btw, i loved how some guys caught a pivete in flamengo the other day. gave him a lesson, undressed him and tied him to a lamp post (?).
Ken_Apples
02-08-14, 16:45
i never been robbed in rio and consider it safe using common sense. however the last 4 days i witnessed three robberies in copa / leme, daytime and nighttime. yesterday evening when i crossed av princess isabel with my gf there were a guy on a bike coming up to us from behind. propably interested in my gfs purse as i wear nothing in my pockets (money inside my bermudas). i heard him coming and stopped and turned to him and he turned his bike and instead robbed a smartphone from a guy walking 10 metres behind us. he hit the guy and grabbed his phone and speed away on the bike. just in front of the police cabin (in the middle of the avenida).guys, should there maybe be a report in the links to reports of distinction purely about safety?
maybe you sperto or any other member with much experience in rio could write a small, yearly updated "101. what to do and do not do in rio" guide?
it's sad when guys that maybe only have the chance to travel one time a year, get caught in something bad, just because they did not have the latest info.
yes, this thread and rtff is always a good thing to do, but a small and updated, separate safety pdf or link / something in the reports of distinction could maybe be a good thing?
think about it. what if the effort just saves 1 single member from getting into harms way each year, would it not be worth it?
best regards, ken apples
Exec Talent
02-08-14, 17:53
Guys, should there maybe be a report in the Links to Reports of Distinction purely about safety?
Maybe you Sperto or any other member with much experience in Rio could write a small, yearly updated "101. What to do and do not do in Rio" guide?
It's sad when guys that maybe only have the chance to travel one time a year, get caught in something bad, just because they did not have the latest info.
Yes, this thread and RTFF is always a good thing to do, but a small and updated, separate safety pdf or link / something in the Reports of Distinction could maybe be a good thing?
Think about it. What if the effort just saves 1 single member from getting into harms way each year, would it not be worth it?
Best regards, Ken ApplesCrime definitely is up. This week, my GF and I were walking about 7 PM on Copacabana Beach and a guy assaulted a group of gringas and took a watch from one of them. Typical favela rat who took off running away from the beach with his loot.
I am in all areas of Rio all times during the year and the best piece of advice I can offer is don't have anything on you worth stealing. I use a cheap phone, dress down and never carry a lot of money. If you are into bling. Bling at home. If I am going to be walking in a questionable area I carry a full water bottle and carry it like a club. I have had to use it a couple of time several years ago but not recently. One thing I have notice recently is the absence of the shit on the shoes guys.
Exec Talent
02-09-14, 21:10
I had an interesting discussion with Paulo, a beach vendor, today. Some of you may know him. He is the guy who walks around saying want to buy a hat?
He told me that the police are cracking down on beach vendors because they associate them with the favela rats who are robbing people. He said that he has been selling on the beach for 33 years and never had a problem until recently when three guys attacked him because he wouldn't give them free hats. Been noticing many of the Lixo Zero patrol and people picking up garbage on the Copacabana Beach including one very hot garbage woman. I told a colleague I thought she looked good and when he told her she turned around smiled and gave me a thumbs up.
Also wanted to mention for those who like riding bikes be careful. There have been some reports recently of thieves near Flamengo Park attacking riders and stealing their bikes.
Papi Muy Rico
02-13-14, 21:09
You use a water bottle as a weapon? Please explain how. Thanks.
Crime definitely is up. This week, my GF and I were walking about 7 PM on Copacabana Beach and a guy assaulted a group of gringas and took a watch from one of them. Typical favela rat who took off running away from the beach with his loot.
I am in all areas of Rio all times during the year and the best piece of advice I can offer is don't have anything on you worth stealing. I use a cheap phone, dress down and never carry a lot of money. If you are into bling. Bling at home. If I am going to be walking in a questionable area I carry a full water bottle and carry it like a club. I have had to use it a couple of time several years ago but not recently. One thing I have notice recently is the absence of the shit on the shoes guys.
Exec Talent
02-14-14, 17:59
You use a water bottle as a weapon? Please explain how. Thanks.It is full, inverted and held by the tapered end. Hold firmly and swing with force. I left Help and was walking alone on Av Atlantica near Santa Clara when I was accosted. I turned quickly and as hard as I could hit the guy on the head. He never saw it coming and staggered away. I didn't wait for what was next and go the hell out of there. BTW, the bottle did not break.
It is full, inverted and held by the tapered end. Hold firmly and swing with force. I left Help and was walking alone on Av Atlantica near Santa Clara when I was accosted. I turned quickly and as hard as I could hit the guy on the head. He never saw it coming and staggered away. I didn't wait for what was next and go the hell out of there. BTW, the bottle did not break.Interesting. Thanks, for sharing. I usually carry an umbrella about 18 inches long. I have yet to use it in self defense.
Today's Oglobo reporting on the Bermuda Gang in Copacabana. The gang is call this because of the Bermuda board shorts they wear. The gang is composed of minors, at a minimum a group of 5, but up to 20. They walk around, shouting and pretending to fight each other as a distraction in order to steal personal items. These attacks are occurring all over Copa at any time of day, but more frequently on weekends. What is more disturbing, according to the report, is that these groups are more numerous and more violent. In one incident, a young woman was surrounded by 15 youths, knocked to the ground and had her purse stolen. They're also hitting stores, and people sitting at the Kiosks on the beach. An underground bathroom attendant on Copa beach was robbed at knife point. They're stealing cell phones, purses, gold chains, anything of value. Be careful out there.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/as-gangues-das-bermudas-que-levam-panico-copacabana-11827877
In Copacabana, security cam captures woman getting mugged, and knocked down. She chases after the thief. Occurred in broad daylight, looks like Av. N. S. Copacabana. I wonder if she reported it.
http://globotv.globo.com/infoglobo/o-globo-rio/v/cameras-flagram-violencia-em-copacabana/3197621/
In Copacabana, security cam captures woman getting mugged, and knocked down. She chases after the thief. Occurred in broad daylight, looks like Av. N. S. Copacabana. I wonder if she reported it.
http://globotv.globo.com/infoglobo/o-globo-rio/v/cameras-flagram-violencia-em-copacabana/3197621/I think everyone should watch this. It is exactly how robberies occur in Copacabana. The difference with this latest wave is the large number of youths involved in a single robbery. Notice that passers.why barely give it a second glance (even though the victim looks very respectable and the robbers do not). It happens very fast, before anyone has time to gather their wits.
Without geting all paranoid, how to respond to the threat? Don't think things are 'safe' because it is daylight or a well lit street and there are many people about. If your gut tells you a group of people look dodgy, AVOID. Cross over, go the other way, go into a shop, or run if you have to. Some people don't take evasive action for fear of being thought (or thinking of themselves) as racist or prejudiced. It is not. If you smell potential trouble, get out of there quickly (Crossing over or going into a shop is discreet and doesn't attract attention: but it gets you out of harm's way in most cases.) If you are robbed, what about reporting it? The purpose of reporting it is to get a written statement from the Tourist Police (the process can take several hours) that you can later submit to your insurance company. It does not generally serve much purpose beyond that. Thieves will often disappear once they get something of value, so if you have to carry something like a wad of cash you've just withdrawn or a smartphone, stick it inside your pants or your trainers or somewhere less accessible and have a smaller (but still 'valuable') amount of cash or cheap disposable phone in an easy pocket. Finally, just because some low-life scum are targetting people in Copacabana, remember they are a very tiny proportion of people. Most people are good people. A shopkeeper will likely go out of their way to help you if you have been robbed. People don't interfere in a robbery because they could die as a result, not because they don't care: protecting yourself is your responsibility and no-one else's. Once you adjust to these facts of life, keep your 360 degree vision switched on, and then relax and enjoy your day!
In Copacabana, security cam captures woman getting mugged, and knocked down. She chases after the thief. Occurred in broad daylight, looks like Av. N. S. Copacabana. I wonder if she reported it.
http://globotv.globo.com/infoglobo/o-globo-rio/v/cameras-flagram-violencia-em-copacabana/3197621/Twice this year I've seen similar muggings in Copacabana. Both times on Sundays and both times close to the Metro station Cardeal Arcoverde. Scumbags from Zona Norte leaving the beach heading to the metro. Taking the opportunity to mug some innocent people before going home.
Exec Talent
03-11-14, 16:38
In Copacabana, security cam captures woman getting mugged, and knocked down. She chases after the thief. Occurred in broad daylight, looks like Av. N. S. Copacabana. I wonder if she reported it.
http://globotv.globo.com/infoglobo/o-globo-rio/v/cameras-flagram-violencia-em-copacabana/3197621/In the past you would see 4-5 of these favela rats and they would just hit and run. The punk caught on camera was persistent and after he stole the bag was in no hurry to exit the scene. It is this entitlement attitude which is dangerous. Why do you have nice things and we don't? Unfortunately, once a country starts down this path, there is no turning back.
I'd like to add my 2 cents.
Rio de Janeiro crime rate is increasing again due the fact that minors, under 18, have discovered that local laws can't punish them. Since Brazilian legislation doesn't have any means of punishing minors the trend is that most of the drug dealing is done by minors and there are even reports that there are minor drug lords too.
Thus, if being robbed by a minor be very careful since they will get away from murder. Your life means nothing to these rats. In my opinion the police should start doing the street cleaning operations just like they used to.
Also the favela pacification is a huge failure. There are gunfights on major favelas. For example in Complexo Alemao, where criminals are attacking police and killing them. There simply isn't enough manpower to contain these favelas. Also there is a strong rumor that favela rats, who escaped the police when UPPs (police pacification unit) were created, are returning back to the city from Baixada and Niteroi.
So, if they don't use military to keep the city calm during the World Cup we can expect a carnage. Although I have heard that there is preliminary order of using armed forces for security of the city.
There are plenty of good advice here, so just don't carry anything that you're not willing to lose.
Exec Talent
03-17-14, 15:37
Many people posting here have noted how expensive Rio has become. Now imagine that you only made about $300 a month.
The problem in Rio is that now there are many unskilled labor (construction) jobs. They will go away. Brazilians do not save and have a credit card default rate of 28.
Rising prices, low stagnant wages, unemployment, no access to credit. I actually think crime in Rio will be worse than it was in 2000. 2005.
It has been nice to walk around Rio and feel relatively secure. This is changing. As others have stated, be vigilant. Don't let your guard down.
In the past you would see 4-5 of these favela rats and they would just hit and run. The punk caught on camera was persistent and after he stole the bag was in no hurry to exit the scene. It is this entitlement attitude which is dangerous. Why do you have nice things and we don't? Unfortunately, once a country starts down this path, there is no turning back.The people respond. The host of "Cidade Alerta," the sensationalist news program, stated recently that he has never seen so many videos of people administering street justice. It all started with the video of the 17 yr old in Flamengo, naked, beaten and shackled to a post by his neck. Since then, many similar videos of muggers getting beat up by people on the street. The Brazilian populace are fed up with these juveniles getting arrested, and released. That TV host keeps repeating daily how there is no criminal justice in Brazil and how the laws protect criminals. The Brazilian legislature recently failed to pass a law lowering the age for juvenile crime. It wouldn't matter if that law had passed, as Brazilian judges do not follow the letter of the law. They make it up as they go along, thus circumventing the intent of the legislature. The attached article was written in 2008, still holds true today.
http://www.brazzil.com/info/188-february-2008/10042.html
The UPP pacification has done a lot of good to the favelas in Rio. Unfortunately many favelas are so huge that they are difficult to control. The last week has been messy. Another UPP PM has been shot, shootings in Complexo Alemão and shootings in Rocinha. There has also been some shootings in the Zona Sul favelas Pavão, Pavãozinho, Tabajara, Babilônia and Chapeu de Mangueira.
I applause the street justice made in Flamengo and Botafogo.
They propably manage to keep the city in a decent order during the world cup with the help of the military.
Sperto.
I beg to differ. UPP isn't the solution for favela problem.
Also no need to wait till World Cup for military intervention, starting today the local "national guard" will be deployed to ensure the safety of the city. This actually means that there will be more crime in areas which have been relatively quiet until now.
Be careful out there.
I arrived 12/18. Used an HSBC ATM at the airport to access my HSBC account. Could only withdraw $ R300, even thought it displayed $R1000 daily limit. I was able to withdraw more Reals later that day from a Banco do Brasil ATM in Copa. Today I received a fraud alert email from HSBC. On 12/19 money was withdraw from my account in Santiago, Chile. And earlier today more money was withdrawn here in Rio. Rat Bastards work quick! Last time this happened, fraudulent charges were made after I left Rio. Not sure which ATM was the culprit.
I report exactly the same. I used the same ATM. The very next day, cash was being drawn from my account from an ATM in Asuncion Paraguay!This has been going on for 6 years! Today's Oglobo reporting that gangs specializing in cloning credit cards have infiltrated the 14 ATM's at GIG. Employees at GIG told the newspaper that this has been going on for at least 6 years. Traveler reports on Trip Adviser have been reporting on this since 2008. The latest cloning device was removed 2 weeks ago. But the gang returns and installs a new cloning device. A security guard also stated that at least 10 cloning devices were found in that 2 week time period. Rival gangs target HSBC and Bradesco. The gang usually puts superglue on the rivals ATM's keypad to make them inoperable.
According to the report, the thieves act as a group. While a well-dressed man installs the cloning device, (where you insert the card,) and a camera above the screen, (which focuses on keyboard password,) a woman conceals her partner. Infrequently, at least three other people spread across the terminal, watching the movement of guards and security. From there, the owners of chip-less credit cards, more in the US and France, become easy prey and have their data cloned and money withdrawn. The French banks are afraid of the World Cup because of this.
According to security at GIG, the number of cases has risen in recent months. The Civil Police said an investigation is ongoing and therefore can not provide comment. They also stated that credit card cloning is the principle crime targeting visitors in Rio. The DEAT, the Tourist Police Service declined to comment.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/turistas-sao-alvo-de-golpe-em-caixas-eletronicos-no-tom-jobim-12148651
6 years! Rio and Brazil should be ashamed about this gross negligence on the part of local and Federal police. How many millions have been lost? As a victim in the report stated, for it to go on this long, someone on the inside has to be in on it.
When I used the HSBC ATM at GIG, the card reader appeared normal, I did not notice anything unusual about it. I also did not notice any camera aimed at the keypad. Not that I was looking for that. There was a security guard present guarding the ATM's at the time. Best advice: Do NOT use the ATM's at GIG!
Exec Talent
04-10-14, 21:23
This has been going on for 6 years! Today's Oglobo reporting that gangs specializing in cloning credit cards have infiltrated the 14 ATM's at GIG. Employees at GIG told the newspaper that this has been going on for at least 6 years. Traveler reports on Trip Adviser have been reporting on this since 2008. The latest cloning device was removed 2 weeks ago. But the gang returns and installs a new cloning device. A security guard also stated that at least 10 cloning devices were found in that 2 week time period. Rival gangs target HSBC and Bradesco. The gang usually puts superglue on the rivals ATM's keypad to make them inoperable.
According to the report, the thieves act as a group. While a well-dressed man installs the cloning device, (where you insert the card,) and a camera above the screen, (which focuses on keyboard password,) a woman conceals her partner. Infrequently, at least three other people spread across the terminal, watching the movement of guards and security...I have had both AMEX and VISA cards cloned in Rio. VISA on my last trip. In the past, several transactions were authorized but this last time it was caught immediately and no transactions were approved. I was notified by phone and email. One time it happened at a restaurant I visit frequently and on my next visit the assistant manager who ran my card tableside no longer worked there. Same thing at a pizza restaurant. When I stopped back in the cashier was gone. Since these employees were sacked at least I got the feeling that the owners and management were not in on it. Some times it does not happen immediately either. One time I was in Europe and had notified my credit card company of my location when they contacted me telling me the card was being used in Brazil.
The best advice I can offer anyone is to bring at least two credit cards with you. I ran into a guy whose only card was cloned and canceled and he had to wait for a replacement. Not a good situation because this happened on a Friday. Let your credit card company know where you are even if they tell you it is not necessary.
I have had both AMEX and VISA cards cloned in Rio. VISA on my last trip. In the past, several transactions were authorized but this last time it was caught immediately and no transactions were approved. I was notified by phone and email. One time it happened at a restaurant I visit frequently and on my next visit the assistant manager who ran my card tableside no longer worked there. Same thing at a pizza restaurant. When I stopped back in the cashier was gone. Since these employees were sacked at least I got the feeling that the owners and management were not in on it. Some times it does not happen immediately either. One time I was in Europe and had notified my credit card company of my location when they contacted me telling me the card was being used in Brazil.
The best advice I can offer anyone is to bring at least two credit cards with you. I ran into a guy whose only card was cloned and canceled and he had to wait for a replacement. Not a good situation because this happened on a Friday. Let your credit card company know where you are even if they tell you it is not necessary.I agree, you should always have multiple cards with you. Have one dedicated to emergencies. Don't use it at all. It's only use should be in emergency. Personally I very rarely use cards in Brazil accept at ATMs. I have a check card dedicated to international travel. The card is not linked to my other accounts with the same bank. I only keep about 20 bucks in the account. If and when I need cash I transfer the amount I need into that account. I then go immediately to the ATM and take the money out. That way if it's cloned the most they can get is $20 and my bank will most likely notify me of fraud. I never use any of my other check cards in Brazil and like I said I keep at least one credit card on me as well for an emergency.
Central do Brasil is very wellknown for muggings.
They made an interview with a woman about the high crime rates at Central do Brasil. During the interview a kid passed by and tried to snatch her gold chain. He didn't succeed.
http://www.cmjornal.xl.pt/detalhe/multimedia/videogaleria/mulher-roubada-no-brasil-enquanto-da-entrevista-em-direto
Brazil expect 600'000 foreign tourists during the World Cup. I guess there will be several thousands of gringos getting mugged.
Exec Talent
04-11-14, 10:42
Central do Brasil is very wellknown for muggings.
They made an interview with a woman about the high crime rates at Central do Brasil. During the interview a kid passed by and tried to snatch her gold chain. He didn't succeed.
http://www.cmjornal.xl.pt/detalhe/multimedia/videogaleria/mulher-roubada-no-brasil-enquanto-da-entrevista-em-direto
Brazil expect 600,000 foreign tourists during the World Cup. I guess there will be several thousands of gringos getting mugged.It is easy to understand why Brazilians beat the crap out of these kids when they catch them.
It is easy to understand why Brazilians beat the crap out of these kids when they catch them.Brazil is third world country where crimes are rampant, both street crimes or white colllar crimes. I have cards cloned more than one time but my good old USA banks and credit unions are gladly correct the account and issue the replacement cards. The ATM at GIG terminal 2, 2nd floor is notorious, I have been subject to card cloning there. So ATM or charges at termas, they are the same. Luckily, they are cleaning their acts so I have no incident recently. The safest is of course cash, a lot of them but then you will be subjected to street crimes. Few termas have policies cash only for girls, the houses accept credits. So you must carry cash no choice.
Don't let them deter you from coming to Brazil and have fun. Accept that as a fact, and move on.
I have had both AMEX and VISA cards cloned in Rio. VISA on my last trip.I used my VISA credit card extensively the last trip. I was in Rio for 3 months. On previous trips, I had my credit card cloned once. I was on the lookout for fraudulent activity once my debit card was cloned. But, surprisingly I had no problems with the credit card this trip. The credit card was always run tableside in my presence.
I used my VISA credit card extensively the last trip. I was in Rio for 3 months. On previous trips, I had my credit card cloned once. I was on the lookout for fraudulent activity once my debit card was cloned. But, surprisingly I had no problems with the credit card this trip. The credit card was always run tableside in my presence.No question the Brazilian government cracks down on the bad guys to combat crimes and Polish the national images, otherwise, tourists will stay away from brazil.
As I understand, Visa and MC also have leverages on the merchants where the suspected transactions take place, so the merchant will not repeat lest losing Visa and MC business.
Tiradentes
04-13-14, 14:42
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/oddnews/woman-is-mugged-during-on-camera-interview-about-crime-194749549.html
The the uninitiated and the cherry poppers, with regards to Rio Scams, the TV program Scam City presents several things to watch out for in the upcoming Carnaval and World Cup events.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1C9o7XagLg
Exec Talent
04-21-14, 16:06
Over the last several years when a foreigner would say that Rio was not safe I would point out it has gotten much safer and was not any more dangerous than a major American city.
Unfortunately, I no longer can make that statement.
Today I arrived at a supermarket in Botafogo and observed a Brazilian woman in tears. A security guard passed me. Apparently her purse had just been stolen and the thief had run in the direction I had just come from. This happened around 11:00 AM with many people around.
My Brazilian friends are telling me that this is a daily occurrence. Anyone traveling to Rio should be aware that this is not the Rio they visited over the last few years. Make copies of your passport and carry it. Carry as little money as possible and avoid carrying much else. The woman today said she lost everything: money, credit cards, checks and her cellphone. I know how this feels since I have had it happen to me while traveling in what I thought was a safe European city. I let my guard down. Keep yours up during your next visit to Rio. Be vigilant.
Over the last several years when a foreigner would say that Rio was not safe I would point out it has gotten much safer and was not any more dangerous than a major American city.
Unfortunately, I no longer can make that statement.
Today I arrived at a supermarket in Botafogo and observed a Brazilian woman in tears. A security guard passed me. Apparently her purse had just been stolen and the thief had run in the direction I had just come from. This happened around 11:00 AM with many people around.
My Brazilian friends are telling me that this is a daily occurrence. Anyone traveling to Rio should be aware that this is not the Rio they visited over the last few years. Make copies of your passport and carry it. Carry as little money as possible and avoid carrying much else. The woman today said she lost everything: money, credit cards, checks and her cellphone. I know how this feels since I have had it happen to me while traveling in what I thought was a safe European city. I let my guard down. Keep yours up during your next visit to Rio. Be vigilant.It was only a year ago when I noticed more of a police presence almost everywhere in Copacabana. This year, I do not see nearly as much. Just an observation.
Going to Rio in two weeks. I have been trying to reconcile comments that I have read on the forum during my search.
Is the metro still safe to take to Copa and Centro? Is it safe to walk from the Uru station to the termas? Or do I need to just cab it everywhere?
From reading, it seems that Copa is just as or more dangerous than centro. It also seems that the recent posts claim that it is more dangerous now than it was a year ago, when many reports and ROD say that it is safe if you take proper precautions. I would have thought that with the World Cup soon that things would have gotten SAFER.
Going to Rio in two weeks. I have been trying to reconcile comments that I have read on the forum during my search.
Is the metro still safe to take to Copa and Centro? Is it safe to walk from the Uru station to the termas? Or do I need to just cab it everywhere?
From reading, it seems that Copa is just as or more dangerous than centro. It also seems that the recent posts claim that it is more dangerous now than it was a year ago, when many reports and ROD say that it is safe if you take proper precautions. I would have thought that with the World Cup soon that things would have gotten SAFER.I was there 2 weeks ok. Metro was OK. Walking to termas from Uru station is ok. I've walked it between 7pm and 11pm. Earlier in the evening there are still lots of people leaving work and filling the streets. Later on the streets are quieter but as long as you walk confidently like you know where you are going its ok.
Crime happens all the time, follow the advice provided on the Forum, do your homework, check maps, walk the routes in the middle of the day to familiarise yourself before going at night. And if in any doubt take a cab.
I was there 2 weeks ok. Metro was OK. Walking to termas from Uru station is ok. I've walked it between 7pm and 11pm. Earlier in the evening there are still lots of people leaving work and filling the streets. Later on the streets are quieter but as long as you walk confidently like you know where you are going its ok.
Crime happens all the time, follow the advice provided on the Forum, do your homework, check maps, walk the routes in the middle of the day to familiarise yourself before going at night. And if in any doubt take a cab.I would think twice before deciding to walk in Centro after 900pm. It is tempted because the distance between Uru station and nearby termas are short.
You make be lucky once but luck will run out if you keep doing it. That calls accumulated risks.
Papi Muy Rico
04-25-14, 05:09
Going to Rio in two weeks. I have been trying to reconcile comments that I have read on the forum during my search.
Is the metro still safe to take to Copa and Centro? Is it safe to walk from the Uru station to the termas? Or do I need to just cab it everywhere?
From reading, it seems that Copa is just as or more dangerous than centro. It also seems that the recent posts claim that it is more dangerous now than it was a year ago, when many reports and ROD say that it is safe if you take proper precautions. I would have thought that with the World Cup soon that things would have gotten SAFER.Rio is not safe, that's why I advised you to leave anything valuable in a locker at the airport. That bus line Real I told you about, has been robbed several times, even with the bus full of people, so you don't want be caught with all your money, your expensive hardware and / or luggage in that bus on your way into town. Use a money belt for your money, passport and ccards.
Inside the metro is quite safe, but once you leave it you are on your own.
In summary, don't carry around what you can't afford to loose.
Crime in Rio has increased but it is still such a big city that most visitors won't see or experience any in the short time they are there. Read up on the tips then stay safe, not paranoid.
Safety in Copa, Lapa and Centro have different climates. In Copa, people can get a false sense of security due to the number of people around. Don't. No-one will come to help you if you are being robbed, and it will happen so quick. If you sense someone who looks a threat (particularly dressed in old filthy clothes and looking seedy) , move away, cross the street or dive into a shop for a moment or two. Copa is targetted largely because of the high proportion of dumb tourists. Just don't be one. Don't have things that can be easily grabed and stolen when you are on the beach (including designer sunglasses). Oh. And if you think the beach looks idyllic at night, look from the pavement, not by walking on it. Give trannies a wide berth on Atlantica.
In Centro, apart from maybe opportunistic pickpocketing or the theft you saw on the video someone posted, the main warning is to avoid or be ultra careful at night or at the weekend.
In Lapa, it's mostly the crowds towards the weekends. Make sure cash is not easily picked out of your pocket. Don't take cash, cards or valuables that you don't need that day / evening (that goes for practically anywhere in Rio). If you are carrying more than a 2-figure sum of reais, spread it in different pockets. Don't pull out a big wallet full of all your cash. (A rubber band BTW works as well as a wallet and is less conspicuous).
In the unlikely event you get mugged, don't resist. If you need to make an insurance claim, get a report receipt from the tourist police for your insurance company (don't expect any help beyond that).
Remember that the overwhelming majority of people are good decent people.
Exec Talent
06-03-14, 14:16
For those coming to Rio for the World Cup please be aware that many of the bank lobbies are closed. This also means less security. My Brazilian friends have commented on seeing obvious thieves hanging around bank ATMs so be careful and alert. If you see someone suspicious best to go to another bank.
Beach Star
06-04-14, 15:46
For those coming to Rio for the World Cup please be aware that many of the bank lobbies are closed. This also means less security. My Brazilian friends have commented on seeing obvious thieves hanging around bank ATMs so be careful and alert. If you see someone suspicious best to go to another bank.The bank security guards have been on strike for over a month, some smaller agencies are closed. It is very difficult to do any cash transaction, as the banks are not working with cash, only those in very safe locations. Sometimes ATMs are not working due to heavy demand.
The bank security guards have been on strike for over a month, some smaller agencies are closed. It is very difficult to do any cash transaction, as the banks are not working with cash, only those in very safe locations. Sometimes ATMs are not working due to heavy demand.Wow. It really is a big mess down there. The WC times are going to be chaos. I visited Rio about two months ago after months of deliberation about whether to go during the games. So glad that I didn't.
I just left Rio and I'm already missing it! I stayed 4 days and did not have time to go to hunting. Next time I'm going alone!! Now the news has been on a fear campaign about the safety in Rio but I had no trouble moving around.
We stayed on the beach at copacabana and I traveled many times by foot to leblon in the main street. Just to see all these beautiful woman in leggins and fitness clothes. Most of the times I had 100 Rs in my pocket and my smartphone and never had I a feeling I was in any danger. Even when I was walking at night between 19 - 21 h. Of course know where you are going, and do your homework.
Most of you guys are here for the p4 p girls but damn I wished I could speak Portuguese to go after the local girls. The amount of ass was INSANE!
Exec Talent
06-07-14, 17:25
Before the pacification of the favelas, the drug lords ruled and dictated that their customers (tourists) were not to be harmed. The teenage favela rats (who in Brazil are too young to prosecuted) were kept in line because they knew what would happen to them should stepped out of line. Now these favela rats know that they can do whatever they want with impunity. If they get caught Brazilians or police might beat the crap out of them (which is why they have formed larger gangs of 15-20) but that is about all they have to worry about.
I have seen Brazilians and tourists get robbed right in front of me. I have been challenged on Copacabana beach (my well-built Brazilian friend threatened to kick the guy's ass and he ran away with my friend pretending to chase him). Brazilians including street vendors tell me daily about assaults. Right now I think it is the calm before the storm. No doubt the organized and smart thugs are waiting until the real money prey shows up in the next few days. People who are stupid enough to pay the outrageous prices asked for housing and World Cup tickets are who these crooks are after.
Outside of construction and of course government, the average Brazilian is not doing well. Food prices are higher than in the US. Money has to come from somewhere.
If you are going to Rio be alert and be aware and do not think the police are going to protect you. The people who live there know they won't.
Gringo killed in the favela Vidigal in Rio. The gringo, iranian with swedish citizenship, was murdered with a knife. The gringo was one of the owners of the hostel Alto Vidigal in Vidigal. (Last year I went there to their "discotheque". The view was amazing, but the club was worthless for hunting bundas as only backpackers showed up.).
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2014/06/suico-dono-de-pousada-no-vidigal-rio-e-encontrado-morto.html
The hostel is worth a lot of money as it lies on the very top of Vidigal. My guess is that the guy got murdered by a greedy pousada-partner, drugdeal that went wrong or maybe he stuck his d*ck in the GF of a traficante.
Exec Talent
09-15-14, 21:45
For those traveling to Rio, be careful on the beaches. The young thugs are back and seems there are more of them than ever.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/pezao-atribui-dificuldade-de-lidar-com-os-tumultos-na-orla-ao-grande-numero-de-menores-envolvidos-13938555
FuckAfMedDig
09-21-14, 18:16
For those traveling to Rio, be careful on the beaches. The young thugs are back and seems there are more of them than ever.
http://oglobo.globo.com/rio/pezao-atribui-dificuldade-de-lidar-com-os-tumultos-na-orla-ao-grande-numero-de-menores-envolvidos-13938555For sure. Ipanema and Copa get hit every weekend now and also Nossa Senhora-hence why you see the security guards with batons in the doorways.
Like mentioned-the kids know they won't be prosecuted and face a beating at most but in a crowd of 50,it can get tricky for the Policia as well.
I've seen them run through buses at bus stops-its to be expected I guess.
I'm propably the first one to assure everybody that they are safe when visiting Rio, as long as they are using common sense. In 23 years I never got robbed in Rio, although I've seen a lot of ugly things.
After what I heard from friends in Rio things are getting ugly now, at least when you're getting out of Zona Sul.
As Sergeant Esterhaus used to say in "Hill Street Blues", "Let's Be Careful Out There!"
As Sergeant Esterhaus used to say in "Hill Street Blues", "Let's Be Careful Out There!"And he would always follow that up with, "Do your jobs!" Which means that we need to still be out there doing our jobs. Mongering!
Christmas time means mugging time. The bandits needs money to buy christmas presents. I've been biking a lot this last week and have seen muggings in Copacabana, Lagoa and Flamengo. The muggers are quick.
I don't really feel sorry for those who loses their mobile phones walking around totally lost texting messages in Whatsapp or FB. Neither do I feel sorry for those gringo-victims who walks around dressed like they are going on a wildlife adventure dressed in safari vests and heavy boots. How about trying to blend in?
Last Friday there was a large arrastão on Avenida Brasil. The bandits blocked the road and started a mass-robbing.
http://noticias.uol.com.br/cotidiano/ultimas-noticias/2014/12/19/motoristas-abandonam-carros-e-fogem-durante-arrastao-na-linha-vermelha-rj.htm
Yesterday a German couple was robbed on Rua Uruguaiana. The robber was armed with a knife. The German guy resisted and got knifed in the chest. Later he died in the hospital. His wife was also hurt in the robbery.
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2015/02/policia-busca-cameras-para-identificar-homem-que-esfaqueou-turistas-no-rio.html
Yesterday there was an accident I Flamengo with the airport bus, Fresco. The bus tipped over. Twenty people injured.
Several gringos injured. In the morning news they showed a injured German guy (Germans seems to be unlucky in Rio).
http://odia.ig.com.br/noticia/rio-de-janeiro/2015-02-18/onibus-tomba-e-passageiros-ficam-feridos-proximo-ao-santos-dumont.html
Exec Talent
03-17-15, 19:24
Seems to be lots of guys asking for information, but few giving on the ground reports.
Would be interested in any first person (no arm chair editorial or historical commentary please) of what is going on with the protests or observations of violence or criminal activity.
Poucolouco
03-17-15, 23:00
Seems to be lots of guys asking for information, but few giving on the ground reports.
Would be interested in any first person (no arm chair editorial or historical commentary please) of what is going on with the protests or observations of violence or criminal activity.The protests were peaceful demonstrations by a higher class of people than the 2013 demonstrations. No violence and no property damage. Crime is about the same as it has always been in Copacabana. You need to exercise a lot of situation awareness when walking around both day and night. Grab and run thieves are active on Av Atlantica as are a few shit shooters. The grab and run guys are a bit more organized than I have seen in the past, operating as a gang. The grabber operates on foot and quickly transfers his take to another on a bike. Police presence is high only on weekends and nearly none after 6: pm except a few PMs on beach ATVs. Dilma has made overtures about entering into a dialog with the leaders of the demonstrators. Aecio Neves is the de-facto leader of the demonstrators. Aecio, you may recall was Dilma's oponent in the October 2014 election.
Sperto, it is not getting better in Zona Sul-Copa is getting worse. I'm there every 2 months and I stay on Nossa and its getting worse at night-weekends arrestaos on beaches. I'm 6 ft 6 and a KIck-Boxer and I've had a few run-ins.
For sure so I can only imagine more compromised gringos. I speak portuguese and look native.
I rather answer in the proper thread to avoid cluster the Rio thread.
You think the situation is getting worse. OK, I respect your opinion.
Maybe you have something that attracts muggers?
IMHO the situation has not worsen. I move around a lot on foot, bike and bus in Zona Sul, not just Copacabana. Shit stills happens but not as much as before. I might be lucky, but in 25 years I've never suffered any robbery/mugging in Rio (that goes for Zona Sul, Norte, Oeste and Centro). I have many friends who comes to Rio on a yearly basis. They have suffered much less safety problems than before.
Poucolouco
03-18-15, 14:22
Today we have new manifestations. Demonstrators from the MTST (Homeless Workers Party) are protesting the government's proposed economic reductions in the huge social subsidized housing program known as "minha casa minha vida. " They have blocked the Rodovia at Sao Goncalvo, entering Niteroi and accessing the bridge to Rio de Janeiro with burning tires. Similar protests are concurrently taking place in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte among other cities.
Two days ago was the second arrasto in the Metro in the last two weeks. Both in Zona Sul.
The bandits are getting more inventive.
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2015/03/bando-faz-arrastao-em-trem-do-metro-no-rio.html
http://extra.globo.com/casos-de-policia/video-mostra-bandidos-fazendo-arrastao-em-vagao-do-metro-do-rio-15133198.html
Poucolouco
03-28-15, 13:40
Armed arrastaos assaulted cars in the tunnel that links Gavea and Tijuca, on Friday morning. Shots were fired. The group stopped traffic in the tunnel and proceeded to rob people in cars that were trapped in the tunnel. Police arrived and arrested one of the bandits. Unfortunately 5 bandits fled the scene to sharpen their skills for another day.
http://bandnewstv.band.uol.com.br/noticias/conteudo.asp?ID=747110&tc=cotidiano-ladroes-encurralam-e-roubam-motoristas-em-tunel-do-rio-de-janeiro
Exec Talent
05-28-15, 22:36
Crime in Rio is getting worse. The latest is for guys on motorcycles to cruise the neighborhoods looking for people talking on their cellphones. When they spot someone they then contact their accomplish who nabs its out of their hand. The motorcycle provides a get away if necessary.
Talk on your phones in a secure area. Not out in the open.
Lots of muggings and arrastões in Zona Sul.
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2015/09/zona-sul-do-rio-tem-tumulto-em-onibus-e-relato-de-assaltos-em-praia.html
http://globotv.globo.com/rede-globo/fantastico/v/arrastoes-assustam-moradores-e-turistas-no-rio/4481528/
http://brasil.elpais.com/brasil/2015/09/21/actualidad/1442792573_902604.html
Lots of muggings and arrastes in Zona Sul.
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2015/09/zona-sul-do-rio-tem-tumulto-em-onibus-e-relato-de-assaltos-em-praia.html
http://globotv.globo.com/rede-globo/fantastico/v/arrastoes-assustam-moradores-e-turistas-no-rio/4481528/
http://brasil.elpais.com/brasil/2015/09/21/actualidad/1442792573_902604.htmlThank you for posting, guess you can't be too vigilant these days in Rio. I have been going to Rio for 35 years and there was always theft problems on the beach or Copacabana streets, wondering if it's any worse now then it has ever been. You would think the authorities would want to control this considering the Olympics coming up soon, bad enough the news reports of the poluted waters now you can expect to get robbed, should be interesting how it all unfolds. At least the Real is falling apart, that's one piece of good news. This all should be good news in the next year or two if this trend continues, high inflation, weak currency, unemployment, perfect storm to bring more GDP's into the market and take over some club in Copacabana and then we'll be alive again, LOL!
Vagabundo1
09-26-15, 14:00
IMHO, the safest place to be is in Zona Norte with a Vasco shirt on, on a public bus, to avoid being a target; to "be the hunter, not the hunted," that is, to look like the kids doing the muggings, not the victims of the muggings; maybe a little advanced mongering, but learning to use the excellent sex motels in Brazil, especially Rio, and to book freelancers is an essential skill to enjoying all that Brazil has to offer (and more safely too).
http://www.guiademoteis.com.br/rio-de-janeiro
For example, one can take the 457 bus from copa (av nossa s. Copa) to: VM, Pra Bandeira, Malaga motel, Condor Motel, Norte Shopping, Cartago Motel; and back again, and probably be safer in reality than the typically dressed western tourist yards from the Copacabana Palace hotel, waiting for Help disco to rise up from the sands of the beach.
Thank you for posting, guess you can't be too vigilant these days in Rio. I have been going to Rio for 35 years and there was always theft problems on the beach or Copacabana streets, wondering if it's any worse now then it has ever been. You would think the authorities would want to control this considering the Olympics coming up soon, bad enough the news reports of the poluted waters now you can expect to get robbed, should be interesting how it all unfolds. At least the Real is falling apart, that's one piece of good news. This all should be good news in the next year or two if this trend continues, high inflation, weak currency, unemployment, perfect storm to bring more GDP's into the market and take over some club in Copacabana and then we'll be alive again, LOL!
Be extra vigilant when on Av. Rio Branco, in the area of the Carioca Station. Daily occurrence of strong arm robberies. Usual suspects taking usual items: Cell phones and gold chains. No Police presence. You'd exit at Carioca station to get to the Prives on Av Rio Branco 156 and 185 and Treze de Maio. Checkout the video.
http://g1.globo.com/rio-de-janeiro/noticia/2016/01/empresario-flagra-assaltos-no-centro-do-rio-veja-imagens.html
Carnival time with many gringos in town is Christmas for the thieves.
I was sitting on the beach today with my GF. A pale and obese gringo came and sat down close to me in a sunchair under a beach umbrella. He had a mobile phone, ipad, watch, camera, small videocamera and a fat wallet. He left some of his stuff in his bermudas which he hang in his umbrella, behind his back where he couldn't see them. The rest of the stuff he left in a small under his chair.
Without any worries at all he left his stuff and went for a swim every now and then. I thought of telling him to be careful but I didn't as I didn't like his attitude and that he was taking photos of girls that he shouldn't even consider looking at. Soon two men sat down in the sand right behind his chair. They had vagabundos written on their foreheads. It was very obvious what they had in their mind. I gave them the evil eye just to notice them that I understood what they were up to.
I told my GF to keep an extra eye on our stuff and I went for a swim. When I came back the thieves had taken at least the gringo's wallet and mobile phone from his bermudas and left.
Exec Talent
05-26-16, 04:13
Yesterday I saw a report on some reputed news channel 'Rio experiencing crime wave before Games' showing a tourist getting mugged while walking by a busy street in rio. He was furiously attacked by a young guy who wanted to snatch his valuables & no one stepped up for help. Just a day before I read something similar on the web but didn't pay much attention to it, let me quote.
But today when i saw that live footage... omg I mean its really happening right there. Guys any idea how frequently these incidence occur & is it really a matter of concern.One of the things I noticed in the news videos (in addition to all the first hand reports from Brazilian friends) is that the young thugs were attacking the muscle guys on the beaches. That happened in the past, but it was rare as there was a good chance they would get their ass kicked. Maybe not today, but if there were seen again, definitely.
Other things that are disturbing, the sheer numbers: used to be 5-8 now it is gangs of 15 - 20; location: used to be Copacabana, Lapa or Centro now Ipanema, Leblon, Botafogo; robberies on buses were somewhat rare. Now the favela rats are jumping up and snatching phones and necklaces through open windows.
All reports I have received is that the favelas themselves are becoming more dangerous. As rents increase, people are moving and squatters are taking over properties. Also, many middle class workers are getting laid off and shops are closing. People are laying off their domestic help. With no jobs, people have to feed their families some way which means more crime. The number one item most likely taken is a smart phone. Avoid using one on the street and even taking one out in public. During the World Cup, I knew tourists and Brazilians alike who had phones taken right out of their hands.
I'm going to Rio soon, so I have been reading up on Rio some. There is a Facebook page about crime in the area. I guess some locals that want to fight crime get on a Whatsapp group message to send alerts. An article on their Facebook says the phone app WAZE is making Rio the first city that alerts you that you are going in to a higher than normal crime area.
Look at their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/021alerta/ It is in Portuguese, but you can open it will Google Chrome browser, then right click and use translate.
Exec Talent
08-25-16, 16:57
I'm going to Rio soon, so I have been reading up on Rio some. There is a Facebook page about crime in the area. I guess some locals that want to fight crime get on a Whatsapp group message to send alerts. An article on their Facebook says the phone app WAZE is making Rio the first city that alerts you that you are going in to a higher than normal crime area.
Look at their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/021alerta/ It is in Portuguese, but you can open it will Google Chrome browser, then right click and use translate.The problem is that there now is crime everywhere. In Botafogo, I was going to the main supermarket at 11:00 AM and a Brazilian woman had her purse snatched right out front. Gangs on motorcycles and bicycles canvas neighborhoods for people on cellphones and then call or text their accomplices on the street telling them where their next victim is located.
A lot of the government corruption had a trickledown effect. If you are not getting your extra 5000 reais a month in payoffs something has to give, like the maid, cook or eating out every night.
The problem is that there now is crime everywhere. In Botafogo, I was going to the main supermarket at 11:00 AM and a Brazilian woman had her purse snatched right out front. Gangs on motorcycles and bicycles canvas neighborhoods for people on cellphones and then call or text their accomplices on the street telling them where their next victim is located.
A lot of the government corruption had a trickledown effect. If you are not getting your extra 5000 reais a month in payoffs something has to give, like the maid, cook or eating out every night.I'm in Sao Paulo, and today I went with a girl from Rio. She speaks good English. She said sadly, it is true that crime is getting worse in Rio. I'm still going next week to get Rio off my bucket list. But I'll be extra careful and not have much worth stealing. Since I'm alone, I'm not going to be going in the water either.
Larry David
08-26-16, 06:17
I'm in Sao Paulo, and today I went with a girl from Rio. She speaks good English. She said sadly, it is true that crime is getting worse in Rio. I'm still going next week to get Rio off my bucket list. But I'll be extra careful and not have much worth stealing. Since I'm alone, I'm not going to be going in the water either.The fecal viruses and bacteria should be enough to keep you out of the water in Rio. Think you need to go as far as Barra de tijuca before the water is clean enough. But beware the current there.
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