Itabuna suspect arrested for luring children with sweets and toys
A 47‑year‑old man was arrested in Itabuna, Bahia, after police responded to anonymous tips of child abuse. The suspect allegedly attracted children and adolescents to his home in the Santa Inês neighbourhood by offering sweets, snacks and toys, and was called “tio” by the victims. Investigators say the case involves two separate incidents, with nine victims total: three children on Friday and six more (four children and two adolescents, one with autism) on Saturday. Police from the 15th Battalion found the suspect with five children at the residence, took him to the 6th Regional Police Coordination, and charged him with rape of a vulnerable person. The local Children’s Council provided immediate support, filed reports and arranged forensic examinations for the victims, while the juvenile court was notified. The suspect remains in custody pending trial.