The Civil Police of Brazil unveiled details of a criminal gang involved in stealing fuels from Transpetro pipelines, causing significant financial losses estimated at over R$ 5 million. This revelation came after the execution of Operation Sangria on Monday, targeting suspects across São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Goiás. As of the latest updates, seven out of nine temporary arrest warrants had been executed, while two individuals remained at large. Additionally, law enforcement has conducted 13 search and seizure operations and has implemented measures to breach bank secrecy, telephone, and telematic communications.

Investigation efforts were led by Detective André Baldochi from the General Investigation Department in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, who revealed that the inquiry commenced in August 2025, following a theft incident involving a pipeline situated between Ribeirão and Cravinhos. This extensive operation not only aims to apprehend the main suspects who were directly involved in the thefts, such as those performing welding on the pipelines during thefts, but also targets truck drivers who transported the stolen fuel and distributor companies that may have been complicit in the operations.

The implications of this criminal activity extend beyond mere financial loss, as such thefts disrupt the logistics and supply chain associated with fuel distribution in the region. With the involved states being crucial to Brazil's energy supply, the efforts to dismantle this gang are essential for maintaining the integrity of the oil and gas infrastructure in the country. Continued law enforcement action will be necessary to deter further incidents and restore confidence in the safety of the energy supply chain in Brazil.