The Federal Police launched on Tuesday (30) the “Operation Retail”, which aims to dismantle a criminal organization focused on cargo and truck theft, as well as receiving and washing capital. The actions take place in five states of the Federation.
In all, 35 temporary arrest warrants and 49 search and seizure warrants issued by the court are being served at addresses linked to those investigated in the states of São Paulo, Espírito Santo, Santa Catarina, Minas Gerais and Mato Grosso.
Investigations, which began from “Operation Cacaria” steps, identified a criminal organization armed and specializing in truck theft, dismantling and marketing of parts from various states, including virtual platforms.
It is estimated that the group has committed at least 50 crimes between August 2024 and June 2025, with a goal of two stolen trucks per week.
Criminal performance included the use of mobile, GPS and Wi-Fi signal blockers to make tracking, the use of sheds for breakdown and transportation of parts with false invoices, as well as the support of a member linked to a vehicle tracking company, which provided privileged access to technological information.
Thefts were practiced by different modalities, including armed approaches, false hiring of freight by apps and attacks on truckers rest sites.
The money obtained was hidden through accounts on behalf of third parties and legal entities, characterizing capital washing. Investigated may be responsible for the crimes of criminal organization, theft, reception and laundering of capital.
