On July 6, 2025, the Special Police Operations Battalion (BOPE) of the Minas Gerais Military Police (PMMG) conducted a dramatic hostage rescue simulation as part of the PMMG’s 250th Anniversary Run. The operation took place at 9:30 a.m., just before the start of the 2 km walk, at the PMMG Academy on Rua Diabase, 320, in the Prado neighborhood of Belo Horizonte.

The simulation was part of a broader celebration that included a 10 km run, 5 km run, 2 km walk, and kids' races. BOPE’s performance showcased their tactical training and precision in high-risk rescue scenarios.

However, the realism of the operation sparked widespread confusion across the internet. Videos and images of the simulation quickly circulated on social media, with many users believing a real hostage situation was unfolding. Even several trusted news outlets mistakenly reported the event as an actual police operation before official clarification was issued.

The incident highlighted both the unit’s impressive realism in training displays and the speed at which misinformation can spread in the digital age. The PMMG later confirmed that the event was a planned demonstration to commemorate the institution's 250 years of service.