In a routine inspection on Friday, the Federal Highway Police (PRF) apprehended a 42-year-old man and recovered a stolen vehicle in Serra das Araras, Piraí, which is valued at approximately R$ 115,637. The vehicle was flagged during the checkpoint at km 233 and bore a registration from Catalão, Goiás, but was confirmed to be stolen. The driver claimed to have rented the car in 2022 but failed to make payments in 2023 and did not return it to the rental company.

Further investigation revealed that the vehicle was reported stolen earlier this month from Bragança Paulista, São Paulo. The incident raises concerns about vehicle theft and rental fraud in Brazil, particularly regarding stricter regulations and enforcement mechanisms. The police have indicated that the suspect is in custody at the Piraí police station, and further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the theft will follow.

This case reflects ongoing issues with car theft in Brazil, highlighting the need for improved monitoring of rental vehicles and better communication among law enforcement agencies. As more vehicles are reported stolen, the ability to track and recover these assets efficiently becomes critical to reducing crime rates and enhancing public safety in the region.