A group of pilgrims from Picos, Piauí, has reported a scam involving a travel company named Maratur, which allegedly canceled their trip to Aparecida do Norte in São Paulo just minutes before departure. The pilgrims claim they incurred losses amounting to R$ 26,000, which includes costs for transportation, lodging, and tickets. In response, Maratur acknowledged the cancelation, attributing the incident to their ongoing financial struggles, and they are in the process of developing a reimbursement plan for affected clients.

The owner of Maratur has described this period as particularly challenging for the business, suggesting personal health issues have also contributed to these operational difficulties. As the police investigate the situation for potential fraud, they have received multiple reports against Maratur, which has prompted a formal inquiry led by the police department. The local authorities have already recorded 14 complaints, indicating a growing concern among clients and questioning the reliability of the company.

Legal representations for Maratur have stated their intention to address the complaints and reassure clients about the status of their operations. As investigations continue, the outcome will not only affect the financial recovery for the clients involved but also the future viability of the travel company amid claims of misconduct. This situation raises broader questions regarding consumer protection and trust in travel services, especially within the pilgrimage tourism sector in Brazil.