João Vitor Nascimento da Cruz, a former employee of the Niterói City Hall, was arrested by agents from the 76th DP (Niterói) on suspicion of pimping transgender women. The arrest was part of the Operation Ronda Sumbria, which targeted criminal activities in the region. Nascimento, who was an employee until early this year, faced serious allegations related to exploiting vulnerable individuals in the sex trade. Reports indicate that he had been extorting money from transgender sex workers for approximately two years, claiming ownership over certain areas where they operated.

The investigation began in late January 2023 after victims reported the exploitative practices they faced while working in conditions of extreme vulnerability. These revelations came shortly after Nascimento's resignation from his position at the City Hall on January 23, where he had been working since February 10, 2025. His dismissal was reportedly linked to the allegations against him, suggesting a connection between his employment and illegal activities that took place in the community, raising concerns about the involvement of public officials in exploitation.

Further testimonies from victims highlighted the extreme circumstances under which they operated, with some describing how Nascimento enforced his control and even demanded payments from those unable to afford to work legally. The case underscores the ongoing issues of violence and exploitation in the sex work industry, particularly among marginalized populations, and raises important questions about the need for protective measures for vulnerable individuals in Brazilian society.