São Paulo candidate calls for body cameras after record police killings

Fernando Haddad, a pre-candidate for governor of São Paulo, has advocated for the reintroduction of continuous recording body cameras for military police officers. He believes this measure, along with enhanced collaboration between state and federal agencies, is crucial for public safety. Haddad stated that body cameras not only reduce police lethality but also protect officers themselves. His remarks came after data revealed São Paulo recorded its highest number of deaths from police interventions in 2025, with 834 fatalities, a 2.7% increase from the previous year. He criticized the current governor, Tarcísio de Freitas, for perceived resistance to partnering with federal bodies like the Federal Police, the Federal Revenue Service, and COAF. Haddad proposed establishing a permanent institutional cabinet, led by himself, to foster cooperation between state and federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies. He also emphasized the need for updated policing strategies, including greater use of intelligence and technology to guide patrols and reclaim areas dominated by crime. Haddad highlighted that security issues extend beyond the São Paulo metropolitan area, citing increases in homicides and vulnerable victim assaults in Campinas, as well as rising farm robberies. He also warned about the growing threat of organized crime and militias, particularly in cargo theft, and stressed the importance of intelligence-led policing to prevent São Paulo from mirroring the situation in Rio de Janeiro.