Gospel singer Isadora Pompeo has publicly denounced an act of vandalism against her vehicle, which she attributes to a dispute with an unofficial parking attendant, known locally as a 'flanelinha,' near the Santos FC stadium. The artist shared the incident with her millions of followers, detailing how her car was found extensively scratched after she attended a match at Vila Belmiro.
According to Pompeo's account, the trouble began when she traveled from Campinas to Santos with her mother and a friend to watch a Santos FC game in late April. Upon arriving near the Urbano Caldeira stadium, they found the streets congested and parking scarce. After initially refusing an offer from a flanelinha, they eventually accepted a parking spot he provided, negotiating a fee for the service.
The situation escalated after the trio parked. The flanelinha reportedly followed them, insisting they purchase their match tickets through him using his personal phone. Pompeo and her companions declined, stating they preferred to buy tickets from an official source for security reasons. The singer was then recognized by others and escorted to purchase tickets legitimately, while the flanelinha left the area visibly angry.
After watching the game, Pompeo returned to her car to discover it had been severely vandalized. Deep scratches now covered the entire vehicle. She expressed a profound sense of violation, stating she had paid for the parking spot in good faith, expecting her property to be looked after. The damage was so extensive it required professional repair.
The singer attempted to gather evidence, but a nearby business owner reportedly refused to release security camera footage. Local police offered assistance, but without visual proof, identifying the perpetrator proved difficult. Pompeo's public complaint brought attention to the recurring problem of flanelinhas operating in the area, particularly on match days.
In response to inquiries, the Santos city administration noted that there is no specific municipal law prohibiting the activities of flanelinhas. However, they advised that victims of threats or extortion should contact the police, who are supported by the Municipal Civil Guard (GCM). The GCM stated it increases patrols around Vila Belmiro during events to deter such activities and ensure public access.
Santos FC did not provide a comment on the specific incident involving the singer. The case underscores the tensions that can arise from the unregulated parking assistance services that flourish around busy sporting venues, leaving fans and visitors vulnerable to disputes and property damage.
Based on reporting from g1.