Headline: Brazilian Police Dismantle Alleged Assassination Gang Targeting Lawmakers and Judges

Brazil’s Federal Police have arrested five suspects linked to a criminal gang accused of plotting to assassinate and spy on high-ranking judges and lawmakers, authorities announced Wednesday. The group, known as C4—short for Command for hunting Communists, Corrupt people, and Criminals—was reportedly formed by a military officer in collaboration with several civilians.

According to documents seized during the operation, C4 charged up to 250,000 reais (about $44,000) to target members of the judiciary and 150,000 reais for senators. The gang was armed with rifles and explosives, and investigators say prostitutes were used to lure potential victims. The investigation began after the murder of a lawyer in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso state, which authorities believe was connected to the group’s activities.

Among those targeted in the latest police operation was a retired colonel already imprisoned since last year for his alleged role in the lawyer’s killing. Federal Police executed six search and seizure warrants across three Brazilian states as part of the ongoing probe. It remains unclear if any high-ranking officials were physically harmed by the organization.

The arrests underscore growing concerns over the safety of public officials in Brazil and the persistent threats posed by organized criminal groups. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the full extent of the gang’s operations and possible additional conspirators.