In a significant operation led by the Special Group for Combating Organized Crime (Gaeco) in Brazil, a police officer and a lawyer were arrested on suspicion of being part of a criminal group involved in obstructing investigations into organized crime. The operation, named 'Catch Me If You Can', was conducted on Monday, and the news was publicly disclosed by the Public Ministry of Minas Gerais on Wednesday. Authorities have also issued a warrant for the arrest of a former mayor of Chácara, who is currently considered a fugitive.

The situation arose from allegations that the criminal association engaged in systematic efforts to hinder ongoing investigations. According to the Public Ministry, the group acted in a professional manner to obstruct law enforcement activities. This crackdown comes as part of a broader initiative that began earlier in the year, indicating that the authorities are taking serious measures to combat corruption and complicity within law enforcement and legal systems, an area that has become increasingly problematic in Brazil.

On top of the arrests, six search and seizure warrants were executed in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Chácara, targeting five other individuals implicated in the scheme. The identities of those arrested, aside from the police officer and lawyer, have not been disclosed. This operation underscores the ongoing challenge faced by Brazilian authorities in dealing with organized crime and the involvement of public officials in subverting justice, as well as the need for greater accountability and reform within public institutions.