Brazil: Gunmen attack nightclub in Fortaleza January 27

Event

At least 14 people were killed during a shooting at a nightclub in the northeast city of Fortaleza, Ceará state, on Saturday, January 27. The incident occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday at the Forro do Gago club. According to witnesses, the attackers drove up to the club in three cars and opened fire into the front of the building. State security officials believe that the shooting was related to an ongoing conflict between rival gangs. No individuals have been arrested in connection to the incident as of Saturday.

Context

Violence has been increasing in northern parts of the country in recent months. In early 2017, violence erupted between Red Command (Comando Vermelho) and the First Capital Command (Primeiro Comando da Capital; PCC), two of the Brazil's largest criminal gangs. This has led to intensified fighting over the control of drug trafficking in the north of the country.

Advice

Individuals present in Fortaleza, and Ceará state more generally, are advised to remain vigilant and avoid entering favelas (slums; often located in very close proximity to more affluent neighborhoods). Keep in mind that criminals are often armed; never offer resistance if assaulted.