In Criciúma, the largest city in southern Santa Catarina, numerous women and adolescents using public transportation have come forward with alarming accounts of discovering anonymous sexual notes concealed in their bags and backpacks over recent weeks. These messages, often overtly sexual in nature, express the sender’s desire to know, kiss, and even massage the recipients. One such note stated, 'Your feet are wonderful, show them more, please. Perhaps one day I will tell you this in person.' These incidents have raised serious concerns regarding safety on public transport for young women, leading to at least two formal police reports from victims aged 16 and 21.

The situation has escalated to police involvement, with the local Civil Police launching an investigation into the reports of sexual harassment. Regional delegate André Milanese indicated that the incidents predominantly occur during commutes between the Colonial neighborhood and the city center, especially on a bus route known as Amarelinho in downtown Criciúma. Authorities are hopeful that security camera footage will provide crucial leads in solving the case and ensuring the safety of public transportation users.

As the investigation unfolds, attention is being drawn not only to the immediate safety issues but also to the broader societal implications regarding the treatment of women in public spaces in Brazil. The visibility of such incidents highlights the urgent need for conversations around gender-based harassment and the necessity for stronger protective measures in public transport systems, ensuring that women and girls feel safe traveling within their communities.