During the recent Carnival celebrations in São Paulo, officers from the DHPP (Department of Homicides and Protection of Individuals) took to the streets in costumes, notably as Minions from the 'Despicable Me' franchise, engaging in a unique approach to crime prevention. Their strategy involved infiltrating crowds to catch criminals in the act, maintaining a light-hearted appearance while focusing on serious law enforcement duties. This approach reflects an ongoing tradition where police blend into festive environments, allowing them to monitor and intervene against criminal activity more effectively.

Between the night of Sunday (15) and Monday (16), the disguised officers made notable arrests. In the central region of República, police apprehended two women for qualified theft immediately after they stole a cell phone from a Carnival participant. The stolen phone was recovered and returned to its owner. Additionally, police seized another smartphone from the suspects, who were unable to account for its origin, ensuring it would undergo forensic examination to uncover further details regarding its ownership.

Further arrests continued on Monday in the Santa Cecília neighborhood, showcasing the police's commitment to maintaining safety during one of Brazil's most vibrant celebrations. Alongside the ground operations, aerial surveillance was also deployed using a drone, enhancing real-time monitoring capabilities. This multifaceted approach not only aimed to deter potential criminals but also to reassure the public that law enforcement was present and proactive throughout the festivities, contributing to a safer environment for celebrants.