Brazil Unrest Reported

Reports indicate that renewed gang-related violence flared in Sao Paulo over overnight on 29 - 30 August 2006. Most attacks were directed against financial institutions located in upscale neighborhoods of the city of Sao Paulo. Attacks targeting private vehicles and at least one police station and a police vehicle also occurred in the interior of the state. Following the attacks, the police force increased security at all police stations, as in the past these have been the main targets of the attacks. Despite the attacks, business is being conducted as usual in Sao Paulo on 30 August.

The Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) criminal organization, which staged attacks in May, July and early August, is claiming responsibility for the attacks and threatening "attacks in proportions never seen before" to protest against what they consider to be unfair treatment of prison inmates. Authorities were aware that violence was going to resume in the state, as they had intercepted a written order to renew the attacks. Reports indicate that the PCC has ordered the kidnapping of a politician, which would reportedly take place on 30 or 31 August.

Travelers to Sao Paulo and those already in the city should exercise increased caution in the coming days, particularly during night hours, when most attacks occur. In addition, travelers should keep abreast of local developments at all times.