A recent report by the Argentine news outlet Infobae revealed that the First Capital Command (PCC), Brazil’s largest organized crime syndicate, has established a presence in Sydney, Australia. The PCC has set up two cells in collaboration with a local motorcycle gang controlled by Italy’s ‘Ndrangheta mafia, expanding its reach beyond Brazil.
Described by the U.S. Department of the Treasury as one of the most powerful organized crime groups in the world, the PCC was founded in 1993 by inmates of Sao Paulo’s Taubaté Penitentiary. Over the years, it has grown into a transnational crime and drug trafficking syndicate with over 40,000 members and 60,000 contractors, operating in multiple countries.
The PCC has formed alliances with other South American drug trafficking organizations, including Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua, and has been involved in a wide range of criminal activities generating billions in revenue. Its partnership with the ‘Ndrangheta mafia allowed it to establish its foothold in Australia.
Authorities have noted an evolution in the PCC’s operations in Australia, moving from simply supplying drugs to becoming directly involved in shipping and logistics. This shift has raised concerns about drug trafficking routes between Australia and the Pacific Islands, which are considered strategic by criminal organizations.
The PCC’s interest in expanding its drug market to include synthetic drugs like methamphetamines and fentanyl has led to increased scrutiny. The Brazilian government’s new trade route with Vanuatu has also raised concerns about potential exploitation for drug trafficking.
Overall, the presence of organized crime groups like the PCC in Australia poses a significant threat, as they exploit trade routes and vulnerabilities in the region to facilitate their illicit activities.
