Narratives about “Criminality” and “Criminal Factions” in Alagoas (Brazil)

Abstract

The debate on so-called criminal factions in Brazil has been largely shaped by research grounded in the reality of the Southeast, which tends to obscure the specific dynamics of other regions of the country. In recent years, however, empirical studies have gained ground in the Northeast, with the works of Luiz Fábio Paiva (2019) standing out as a reference for the study of this phenomenon and paving the way for new investigations in the region. This article examines the recent emergence of such factions in Alagoas, their modes of operation, and the reverberations they produce in local society. The analysis draws on narratives constructed by different actors — members of the criminal world, government officials, and the media — with emphasis on the emergence and identification of figures considered central to this context. Finally, we discuss the role of these criminal groups both in the everyday life and in the social imaginary of the city of Maceió.