SUMMARY

The gang Estados Unidos was a drug trafficking gang active mainly in Paraíba, in the northeast of Brazil. The gang was founded in the mid-2000s at the Desembargador Flósculo da Nóbrega Jail, shortly after the creation of Okaida, their primary rival. The name “Estados Unidos” was taken in response to “Okaida”, referencing the conflict between the United States and the terrorist group Al-Qaida. The group was less organized than other groups in Paraíba or in Brazil. Their hierarchical organization was not based on accountability to one person, having more than one leader at a time, some of the main ones being Neguinho, Coroa Daniel, Mago Daniel and Coroa Nino.

In its first years, Estados Unidos’ operations were concentrated within Bairros dos Novais and Mandacaru neighborhoods. While they also maintained a presence in greater João Pessoa, Campina Grande, and Patos, their influence and activities within the more rural interior of the state were relatively limited.

Following the dissolution of their alliance with Okaida, the PCC forged a new partnership with Estados Unidos, securing their backing within the state. This collaboration provided the PCC with a local ally for the trafficking of firearms and narcotics along the coast, a key entry point for goods originating from Europe.

Estados Unidos has been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organized violence.