A criminal gang known as 'train surfers' has stolen large quantities of soybean and sugar in São Paulo, resulting in significant financial losses over the past two years.
In São Paulo, a group referred to as 'train surfers', part of a criminal organization, has been involved in the theft of soybean and sugar cargo, leading to an estimated R$ 13 million loss over the last two years. Their activities centered around the town of Aguaí, where they targeted freight trains carrying these valuable goods. This alarming trend highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized theft in Brazil.
Recently, the police launched Operation Ouro Branco, designed to dismantle this operation and apprehend those involved. The operation included a coordinated effort by the Division of Investigations on Thefts, Robberies, and Vehicle and Cargo Receipts (Divecar) within the Criminal Investigations Department (Deic). The results were promising, as it led to the arrest of four individuals, with detectives confiscating vehicles and equipment used in the criminal activities.
Danilo Alexíades, a police delegate overseeing the operation, indicated that three individuals were temporarily detained during the police actions, while another was caught red-handed with firearms during the investigation. The operation reflects the increasing pressure on authorities to address cargo theft and safeguard Brazil's agricultural sector, which is vital for its economy.
