Antônio Fernandes de Sousa Celestino, a 48-year-old man nicknamed 'Cabeludo', was arrested on Monday night in Teresina, Brazil, for allegedly stealing over 40 crucifixes and other religious ornaments from the São José Cemetery. The police recovered approximately 43 crucifixes, primarily made of copper, which the suspect intended to sell for R$ 40 each. The thefts were reported to have taken place during the early morning hours, and the police were alerted by local municipal authorities regarding the burglaries.

According to police delegate Tales Gomes from the Civil Police's Operational Division (DEOP), the investigation revealed that Antônio had actively targeted the cemetery for metal items, especially crucifixes. Notably, Antônio, who is homeless, had previously faced theft charges, but legal actions against him were put on hold due to his lack of a fixed residence. This situation made it difficult for law enforcement to locate him, allowing the thefts to continue unchecked.

Law enforcement is now focusing on tracing the receivers of the stolen items, indicating a broader effort to tackle theft and trafficking in stolen religious artifacts. The arrest highlights ongoing concerns about crime in urban areas like Teresina, where economic hardship may drive individuals to engage in criminal activities such as theft for survival. The case is emblematic of societal issues related to poverty and homelessness that the local authorities are striving to address.