Feb 19 β€’ 13:17 UTC πŸ‡§πŸ‡· Brazil G1 (PT)

Carnival 2026: BH records no occurrences of rape and feminicide and has a 70% decrease in cellphone theft during the festivities, says government

The government of Minas Gerais reported a significant decline in crime rates during the 2026 Carnival in Belo Horizonte, including no cases of feminicide or rape.

During the 2026 Carnival, the government of Minas Gerais announced a notable reduction in major crime rates in Belo Horizonte, reporting no incidents of feminicide or sexual abuse against vulnerable individuals throughout the celebration. The data, compiled by the Public Safety Observatory, highlighted a drastic 70% decrease in thefts, robberies, homicides, and sexual violence compared to the previous year's festivities.

Between the official start on Saturday, February 14 and the conclusion on Tuesday, February 17, the state observed a substantial drop in cellphone thefts, which fell by 55.7% statewide, from 88 cases in 2025 to 39 in 2026. In the capital city specifically, the reduction was more pronounced, with cellphone thefts declining by 71.4%, plummeting from 63 reported cases to just 18. Homicides, which are closely monitored for violent crime trends, also saw a significant decline of 48.3% in the state, with incidents dropping from 29 in 2025 to 15 in 2026.

Among the government's key initiatives to enhance safety during the Carnival were the introduction of the "Cabine Rosa" (Pink Cabin), a new security policy aimed at protecting women. This policy aligns with the government's efforts to create a safer environment at public events, reflecting a proactive approach to tackling crime and ensuring the well-being of participants during large gatherings such as the Carnival. The successful metrics reported by Minas Gerais officials signify potential improvements in public safety and community trust in law enforcement during festive seasons.

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