A coordinated police operation in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, has led to the arrest of a man suspected of being a key member of a criminal group that targeted tourists. The suspect, who allegedly used a motorcycle and presented himself as a delivery app driver, was apprehended in the Rocas neighborhood on Thursday.
The arrest was part of 'Operation Fake Driver,' a police initiative specifically designed to dismantle the group responsible for a series of robberies along the popular Meio and Forte beaches in the city's eastern zone. The operation also executed search and seizure warrants issued by the 8th Criminal Court of Natal.
The investigation was triggered by a violent robbery on February 26, 2026. On that date, two armed men confronted a family of tourists from São Paulo and Roraima at a beachfront kiosk on Avenida Presidente Café Filho. The criminals stole cell phones, gold jewelry, and personal belongings using violence and threats.
According to the Civil Police, all the stolen items from that incident were recovered during the initial investigative efforts. The arrested suspect has a prior criminal record for drug trafficking and robbery and was previously responding to legal processes under an open regime.
Investigators revealed the group's sophisticated modus operandi. Members would use roles connected to delivery and ride-hailing apps to provide logistical support for their crimes. The arrested man, besides posing as a delivery driver, also worked at his father's food establishment.
Another suspect under investigation for the same crime allegedly posed as an app-based driver. This role was reportedly used to scout locations, help select victims, and conceal stolen goods after the robberies were carried out.
The criminal network primarily operated in areas with beach kiosks and stalls. Spotters within the group would identify tourists carrying valuable items, especially gold jewelry, and relay information to the perpetrators. Police analyzed surveillance footage showing the suspects arriving on a motorcycle, receiving victim information, committing the robbery, and fleeing immediately afterward.
Based on reporting from g1.