Pará Sees Record Police Intervention Deaths in 2025, Study Finds
A new study titled "Pele Alvo" by the "Rede de Observatórios da Segurança" reveals that Pará recorded 632 deaths resulting from police intervention in 2025, an increase of 35 deaths compared to the previous year. This marks the highest number of such fatalities since the historical series began in 2019. In Belém, the state capital and host of COP 30, 99 deaths were recorded, the highest absolute number among municipalities in Pará. The study, which compiles data from nine Brazilian states, highlights that among victims with reported race or color, 516 were Black or Brown, according to IBGE criteria. Pará also registered the second-highest rate of deaths among Black individuals, with eight per 100,000 inhabitants, surpassed only by Bahia. The data further indicates that 418 victims were between 12 and 29 years old, and 244 had not completed elementary education. The Military Police were responsible for 89.7% of these deaths, with the study also noting 19 homicides committed by state agents outside of confrontation situations. The municipalities of Belém, Ananindeua, and Marituba together accounted for 193 victims. The research underscores the selective nature of police violence and reinforces racial inequalities, aiming to broaden the debate on police lethality and its disproportionate impact on the Black population. Despite public policy investments like "Usinas da Paz," the study points to the persistence of militarized policing and armed confrontations in Pará. In contrast, the state government asserts a continuous reduction in major crime indicators, prioritizing violence reduction and decreased police lethality. The Secretary of Public Security and Social Defense (Segup) of Pará stated that police officers are equipped with body cameras, drones, and non-lethal weapons, alongside ongoing training for enhanced safety and effectiveness. The government also presented data indicating a 61% reduction in intentional lethal violent crimes (CVLI) in the first half of 2026 compared to the first half of 2018, attributing this decline to investments in new vehicles, equipment, and intelligent monitoring systems.
The study "Pele Alvo" presents a stark contrast between rising police intervention deaths in Pará and the state government's claims of reduced criminality and police lethality. The data suggests a disproportionate impact on Black and Brown individuals and young people, raising questions about the effectiveness and equity of current public security strategies. While the government highlights investments in technology and training, the persistent high numbers of fatalities, particularly those occurring outside of confrontations, warrant a critical examination of policing tactics and accountability mechanisms. Future policy considerations should focus on systemic approaches to de-escalation and community safety, ensuring that security measures do not exacerbate existing social and racial inequalities, especially in the context of evolving technological surveillance capabilities.
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