Five men were apprehended by the Civil Police and led to the Consumer Police Station on Friday, October 20, for allegedly engaging in ticket scalping during the Rio Open tournament. According to law enforcement, these individuals were either selling or offering tickets for the event unlawfully, which has been a continuing problem since the tournament began on October 14. This incident adds to the total of 11 arrests made as part of a broader operation aimed at curbing ticket scalping at this high-profile sporting event.

From the onset of the Rio Open, police have actively monitored ticket sales to protect consumers from fraud. Players and fans alike have been encouraged to be cautious, as purchasing tickets from scalpers poses significant risks, including the possibility of counterfeit tickets that may not grant entry to the venue. Wellington Vieira, the head of the Consumer Police Station, highlighted the dangers associated with buying tickets from unofficial sources, stressing that the authenticity of tickets cannot be guaranteed when obtained from scalpers.

This crackdown by the Civil Police reflects a growing concern over illegal ticket sales at major sporting events in Brazil, and the authorities are taking stringent measures to ensure the integrity of the event and protect consumers. The efforts show a commitment to addressing this issue more effectively and ensuring that legitimate fans can participate in the Rio Open without falling victim to scams.