Scam in BrazilOther tricks
Kidnapping by armed groups in Brazil
How it works
Armed groups operating in these areas can kidnap civilians. Groups mentioned include drug traffickers, pirates, foreign guerrillas and illegal militias.
Warning signs
- Your route enters an isolated river or border area.
- A proposed visit takes you into a favela where armed groups operate.
How to avoid it
- Avoid the identified high-risk border and river areas.
- Avoid entering favelas.
- If arranging a favela or indigenous-village visit, use a licensed, reputable tour service.
If it happens to you
Avoid resistance or sudden movements. Seek police, medical and embassy assistance as soon as you can safely do so.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or resist an armed robber.
- Get medical help if you are injured or may have been drugged. Call 192 for a medical emergency.
- Block stolen cards and secure affected accounts. Ask your bank to review unauthorised charges or forced withdrawals.
- Write down what happened. Keep receipts, messages, trip details and any other evidence. Ask accommodation staff to preserve relevant visitor records.
- Report the incident to police and request a copy or reference number. Call 190 if the crime is ongoing or you need urgent police help.
- Contact your insurer. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help dealing with local authorities.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the kidnapping by armed groups scam in Brazil?
Armed groups operating in these areas can kidnap civilians. Groups mentioned include drug traffickers, pirates, foreign guerrillas and illegal militias.
How can I spot it early?
Your route enters an isolated river or border area. A proposed visit takes you into a favela where armed groups operate.
How do I avoid kidnapping by armed groups in Brazil?
Avoid the identified high-risk border and river areas. Avoid entering favelas. If arranging a favela or indigenous-village visit, use a licensed, reputable tour service.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Avoid resistance or sudden movements. Seek police, medical and embassy assistance as soon as you can safely do so.
Where in Brazil does this happen?
Border areas with Venezuela, Colombia and Peru, especially rivers; isolated rivers in Brazilian Amazonia; and favelas in the metropolitan areas of Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. It has been reported in Rio de Janeiro, Salvador.
How common is this scam in Brazil?
Occasional. Theft and robbery are serious concerns in Brazil, but the risk varies widely by city and area. Travellers should watch for pickpockets, bag snatching, theft by room visitors, taxi overcharging and fake branded goods. Some robberies involve weapons or forced ATM withdrawals.
Who can I report it to?
Police emergency service: call the toll-free number 190 for a crime emergency. Give your location and explain whether anyone is injured or still in danger. Civil Police (Polícia Civil): report theft or fraud at a police station and ask for a report or reference number. The Civil Police handles investigations. Arrange language help if needed. Fortaleza tourist police (Delegacia do Turista): visit Avenida Historiador Raimundo Girao 805, Praia Iracema, by Hotel Travel Iracema, formerly Othon. Call +55 85 3101 2488. Some English is spoken. Your card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to block cards, secure accounts and report suspicious transactions. Hotel or apartment reception: report room theft immediately. If a visitor may be involved, ask staff to preserve their registration details and share them with police. Your embassy or consulate: contact your country's official embassy or consulate service for passport assistance or problems involving law enforcement. Your travel insurer: use the insurer's official claims channel. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of your loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Brazil?
Police and crime emergencies: 190, Medical emergencies: 192, Firefighters: 193.
Reviewed by @snuck