Brazilian police arrest suspects in separate ride-hailing and dating app robbery schemes

Police in Brazil have conducted two distinct operations targeting criminal groups that use digital platforms to facilitate robberies.

In Minas Gerais, the 'Rebu Branco' operation led to the preventive arrest of two suspects accused of robbing female passengers during ride-hailing trips in Belo Horizonte and Nova Lima. Investigators found that a driver used a fraudulent profile while an accomplice hid in the vehicle's trunk, emerging through the rear seat to threaten victims. The suspects forced passengers to surrender phones and perform Pix transfers or bank loans under duress. Five mobile devices linked to the group's financial operations were seized.

In a separate investigation, the 'Protetor de Divisas' operation resulted in the arrest of four individuals across Bahia and Goiás. This group allegedly used dating and messaging apps to build trust with victims before luring them to specific locations. Once intercepted, victims were subjected to physical aggression, threats with knives, and intimidation involving a dog. The criminals stole personal belongings and coerced victims into making instant bank transfers via Pix.