Temer releases $360 million for Rio security intervention

President Michel Temer on Tuesday (Mar. 27) signed the provisional presidential decree earmarking $360 million for the federal intervention plan to be conducted for Rio de Janeiro’s state security.

On his Twitter page, the president added, “We’re going to win this fight against organized crime.” The amount had been originally estimated by the government at $300 million.

On March 21, Temer confirmed the funding for the intervention, and said that more funds could be earmarked for the operations if necessary.

The intervention had been announced by Temer in February. During the signing ceremony, he described the move as “extreme” but necessary to combat organized crime. The plan is expected to last until December 31 this year.

General Walter Braga Netto, military commandant for the East, was appointed by Temer to spearhead the intervention, which transfers to his hands the command of the state’s public security forces, including its prison system.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira