Robberies and thefts at pharmacies in Campinas, São Paulo, have seen a significant rise of 7.4% from 2024 to 2025, as reported by the São Paulo State Secretary of Public Security (SSP-SP). The number of reported incidents rose from 67 in 2024 to 72 in 2025, with six cases recorded in just January of the current year. This surge highlights a growing trend in organized crime focusing on the stealing of specific high-demand products, namely weight loss pens, which seem to be the latest target for thieves.

Moreover, across the state of São Paulo, the overall incidents of pharmacy thefts and robberies also increased by 3.4%, escalating from 2,519 to 2,607 cases during the same timeframe. The situation appears to be worsening, as January 2026 alone saw 248 registered occurrences, indicating a continued spike in criminal activity within pharmacies. As the demand for weight loss aids rises, the criminal element appears to be capitalizing on the market dynamics, making pharmacies increasingly vulnerable.

In response to this troubling increase in crime, the Pharmaceutical Retail Trade Union of the State (Sincofarma) has begun implementing new security measures aimed at protecting establishments from such incidents. According to legal consultant Rafael Espinhel, these measures include creating internal security protocols and intensifying monitoring within pharmacies. Such initiatives illustrate the retail sector's proactive approach to combat the rise in pharmacy thefts and ensure the safety of both products and customers as they navigate this heightened risk environment.