Inside the Rio slum where gun-slinging masked teens act as security and couriers for drug lords operating just a few miles from the Olympics
Gang-fuelled violent crime dominates the city’s poorest communities and tourists are being warned to be vigilant and ‘not to resist the armed attackers’
Machine-gun wielding teenagers patrol the crime-ridden slums of Rio – only a few miles from where Olympic athletes will compete in two weeks time.
Taken near the posh Copacabana district, these incredible pictures show young masked men posing for the camera while brandishing automatic weapons.
The youngsters work as guards, lookouts and dealers for the drug lords who control the favela communities in the divided Brazilian city.
One the of the gang bosses, brandishing an AK-47, told the Associated Press that violent crime is a normal part of life in Rio.
The man, who does not want to be named, said: “In these communities you can see what real life is like. This is our reality.”
Violent crime and murder is common place in many of Rio's slums which contains around 1.4 million people– about a fifth of the city’s population.
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An estimated 85,000 members of Brazil’s security forces – 47,000 policemen and 38,000 soldiers – will be mobilised to ensure the safety of the thousands of athletes and fans expected to attend the event which runs from August 5 until 21.
The UK foreign office warns that ‘violent crime can occur anywhere’ in Rio and advises travellers 'not to resist attackers' and to be 'ready to hand over valuables if you’re threatened'.
The official government website said: “Crime levels are high. Violence and crime can occur anywhere and often involve firearms or other weapons.
“Avoid wearing expensive jewellery, watches and clothes. Don’t carry large sums of money. Keep mobile phones and cameras out of sight and leave your passport and valuables in a safe place, though you should carry another form of photo ID like a driving licence with you at all times.
“In any situation, be ready to hand over valuables if you’re threatened. Don’t attempt to resist attackers. They may be armed and under the influence of drugs.
"Thefts from cars are common, and cases of carjacking occur. When approaching your car have the keys ready to make it easier to get into the car. When driving, keep doors locked and windows closed, and take particular care at traffic lights.”
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