Operation Desconexão Targets Alleged Illegal Broadband Monopoly in Cabo Frio, Two Arrested

Overview

• Federal police and federal prosecutors launched the operation on March 4 to dismantle control of internet service in the Jacaré neighborhood of Cabo Frio.
• Officers executed 15 search-and-seizure warrants across Cabo Frio, Rio de Janeiro, São Pedro da Aldeia, Araruama and Rio das Ostras.
• Two men were arrested under preventive warrants served in São Pedro da Aldeia and Rio das Ostras.
• Two firearms were seized during the actions, one in Araruama and another in the city of Rio de Janeiro.
• Authorities say the scheme used intimidation, equipment damage and concealed ownership through front companies, and the detainees may face charges including qualified theft, disruption of telecommunications and participation in a criminal organization as the inquiry continues.