In Brazil, death squads are like bowling teams anywhere else. Besides murder gangs comprised of former and current police officers (see "The Players"), there are also death squads made up of congressmen and even, believe it or not, taxi drivers. In February 1999, an investigation into allegations that Congressman Hildebrando Pascoal is the chairman of the board of a death gang responsible for murdering at least 30 people since 1985 was initiated by the Supreme Federal Tribunal, the nation's top court. Death squads are active in at least 9 of Brazil's 27 states. In Acre, a death squad composed entirely of taxi drivers is thought to be roaming around whacking people after fender benders. The Acre taxi hit team has killed at least five people, usually folks involved in accidents with a cab. Steer clear of taxis in Acre, and if you've gotta take one, it'd be a good idea to leave a real good tip.
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