Peace-making Police Units (UPP in Portuguese) have been installed in 15 of Rio de Janeiro's "favelas" to eradicate crime and reclaim territories controlled by drug lords. Hundreds of specially trained young police officers live within each community, trying to win hearts and minds and changing the image of a violent, corrupt and unefficient corporation. Started by the State Government in 2009 with a view to the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics, this pilot program has now become part...
more »
Peace-making Police Units (UPP in Portuguese) have been installed in 15 of Rio de Janeiro's "favelas" to eradicate crime and reclaim territories controlled by drug lords. Hundreds of specially trained young police officers live within each community, trying to win hearts and minds and changing the image of a violent, corrupt and unefficient corporation. Started by the State Government in 2009 with a view to the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics, this pilot program has now become part of newly elected president Dilma Roussef's program for the whole country.
« less