Brazil has launched its biggest operation on its borders alongside 10 South American nations to reinforce security ahead of the Confederations Cup in June.
The Defense Ministry said in a statement that 25,000 army, navy and air force troops began deployment on Saturday along the nearly 17,000 kilometres (10,600 miles) of border Brazil shares with its neighbours.
Planes, helicopters, and patrol boats will be used to stop drug trafficking, arms smuggling and other crimes, as well as the entry of illegal immigrants during the World Cup warm-up tournament.
The Brazilian army is testing its aircraft and armoured vehicles for the transport of troops and the ground forces are doing drills on highway and at strategic points on the border.
In recent years, Brazil has launched a series of operations against criminal gangs operating on its borders and in its cities as the country prepares to organize some high-profile global events.
Immediately after the Confederations Cup next month, Brazil is hosting World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro.
The six-day event, from July 23 to 28, will be Pope Francis’ first international engagement outside the Vatican.
Source: AP
