The Federal Police of Brazil reported the arrest of a couple who were found transporting 20 pistols on the Via Dutra highway, an important thoroughfare connecting São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro. This operation, part of a broader initiative named Operation Redentor, aims to thwart the flow of firearms to criminal organizations in the Brazilian capital. The police had halted a bus originating from São Paulo where the couple was traveling when the illegal cargo was discovered during a luggage search.

During the inspection, law enforcement officers seized 20 handguns concealed within the couple's baggage, underscoring the ongoing issue of arms trafficking in Brazil. The couple has been taken to the Federal Police's Regional Superintendence in Rio de Janeiro, where they were officially charged. They now face serious legal repercussions, including charges of interstate trafficking of firearms, which could lead to prison sentences of up to 12 years if convicted.

This incident highlights the critical challenge of controlling illegal arms movement in Brazil, particularly as these weapons often end up in the hands of gang-related groups. The arrest serves as a reminder of the government's efforts to combat organized crime and reduce violence in major urban centers. Operations like these are vital in tackling the broader issue of security in Brazilian cities, illustrating the need for ongoing vigilance and law enforcement cooperation across state lines.