Police findings indicate a significant connection between homicide rates in the Vale do Paraíba region and the operations of wine cellars, raising serious concerns for local law enforcement. During a press conference, Colonel Luiz Fernando Alves of the local Military Police revealed that a staggering 52% of reported homicides occur within 300 meters of a wine cellar, predominantly during nighttime hours. This alarming statistic suggests that the crime dynamics in these areas are deeply influenced by the activities surrounding these establishments.

Colonel Alves pointed out that the majority of the violent incidents are not necessarily happening inside the wine cellars themselves but in the vicinity, indicating a troubling association between criminal behavior and these businesses. The police have identified a network of issues, including illegal firearm possession, drug trafficking, and money laundering, all of which appear to be thriving unchecked in and around these venues. The presence of organized crime in these areas poses a significant challenge to public safety and law enforcement agencies.

The insights shared by the police highlight an urgent need for increased regulation and oversight of wine cellars, as the prevalence of violence raises questions about community safety and the effectiveness of current policing strategies. Efforts to address the root causes of crime associated with these establishments may be necessary to restore order and ensure the well-being of the Vale do Paraíba residents.