A cloned pickup truck was apprehended by a team of the Military Highway Police (PMRv) on MG 401 in Janaúba when they noticed the vehicle's dirty license plate. The law enforcement teams were engaged in operations related to Carnaval 2026 at kilometer 137, when they observed the truck approaching. Unable to clearly visibility of the license plate due to the dirt, officers ordered the driver to stop for inspection.

Upon conducting vehicle identification techniques, police discovered that the truck had cloned plates and that the original vehicle had been stolen on April 26, 2025, in Divinópolis, Minas Gerais. The driver was questioned about the vehicle's ownership and stated that he had acquired the truck through a negotiation. This raised suspicions and ultimately led to his arrest for possessing a vehicle with altered identification marks and for receiving stolen property.

This incident highlights ongoing issues with vehicle theft and cloning in Brazil, particularly in the context of increased police operations during major events like Carnaval. Authorities continue to strengthen their efforts in identifying and apprehending vehicles involved in illegal activities, demonstrating their commitment to public safety and order on the roads, especially as festivities are anticipated in the coming years.