As per reports, a fire broke out in an informal settlement on Rua dos Gusmões, Santa Ifigênia, near Cracolândia in central São Paulo on Sunday (09 March).

• The fire, which started around 0930 hours (local time) on Sunday (09 March), affected multiple wooden houses and shacks in an occupation known as Favela dos Gusmõe. The Fire Department deployed seven teams to control the flames, fully extinguishing the fire by 1300 hours (local time) on Sunday (09 March).
• Although no casualties were reported, at least 74 families were impacted, many losing their homes and belongings. Residents, including young children, were seen waiting for emergency assistance, with city social workers providing basic relief. The cause of the fire remains unknown and is under investigation by the Civil Police.
• The affected area is close to Cracolândia, a zone known for high drug use and frequent security incidents. Recent revitalization efforts had attempted to improve the surroundings, but the fire has further destabilized the already vulnerable population.
• The municipal and state governments were planning to relocate the affected families within a month as part of an urban redevelopment project. However, officials have indicated that this process will now be expedited.