A wave of new complaints has emerged against Ricardo de Araújo Sobrinho, known locally as 'Ricardinho', who runs an auto repair shop in the northern zone of Teresina, Brazil. Following his recent arrest for vehicle theft, two additional victims reported to police on Tuesday, indicating that this may be more widespread than initially thought. Previously, he faced allegations of taking vehicles for repair, demanding a substantial deposit, and then disappearing with the cars without returning them to their owners.

Ricardo's case has caught the attention of local authorities after four victims, including a court official and a lawyer, had already been identified before these new reports surfaced. He was taken into custody after a hearing, where his detention was converted into preventive custody, meaning he will remain in the Piauí prison system while the investigation unfolds. The modus operandi described by the victims reveals a calculated scheme in which he would charge around R$ 3,000, requesting half upfront and then failing to return the vehicles on the promised dates.

According to police, not only have the victims suffered financial losses, but the operations of the shop itself have raised serious concerns among the public about the legitimacy of auto repair services in the area. The police also mentioned that he instructed his staff to mislead customers about his whereabouts, leaving many victims in a state of anxiety and confusion. As the investigation continues, this case reflects broader issues related to trust and safety in local businesses, emphasizing the need for increased scrutiny and protection for consumers in similar situations.