CGMs Clear Downtown São Paulo Sidewalk of Drug Users in Non-Violent Operation

Drug users removed from São Paulo sidewalk in non-violent CGM operation. São Paulo, Brazil - A nighttime operation by the Municipal Civil Guards (CGMs) on Monday, May 19, 2025, resulted in the removal of a group of drug users from a sidewalk on Rua General Júlio Marcondes in the Campos Elíseos district. A bystander's video, circulating on social media, shows the CGMs interacting with the individuals, though no violence is visible in the footage. The incident is noteworthy given the ongoing challenges of addressing drug use and maintaining public order in the city center. A spokesperson for the CGMs, when contacted for comment, stated, "Our priority is to ensure public safety and maintain order in the city's public spaces. We always strive to conduct our operations in a manner that prioritizes de-escalation and avoids unnecessary violence." The video provides a visual record of the event, offering a unique perspective on the situation. The incident highlights the complex issues surrounding public safety and drug use in urban environments.