Rio Clinic Closes: Drug Trafficking Forces Closure

Rio de Janeiro: Health Clinic Shuts Down Due to Drug Trafficking A Clínica da Família Maestro Celestino in Marechal Hermes, Rio de Janeiro, has been closed indefinitely due to the presence of a drug trafficking operation next to the facility. The dangerous situation posed a significant risk to both staff and patients, leading to the temporary closure. Residents reported multiple instances of armed traffickers invading the clinic, threatening staff, and demanding medicines. "Traficantes armados invadiam constantemente o local, ameaçavam os funcionários e exigiam remédios e procedimentos médicos," stated a representative from the Secretaria Municipal de Saúde. The clinic's closure has resulted in patients being transferred to other health units. The situation underscores the challenges faced by healthcare facilities in high-crime areas. The temporary closure highlights the need for increased security measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients. The city's health authorities are working to address the issue and find a solution to reopen the clinic as soon as possible, ensuring continued access to healthcare for the community.