Sao Paulo Jewelry Robberies Surge 13%, Raising Public Alarm

Sao Paulo Jewelry Robberies Surge 13% in First Quarter of 2025 Sao Paulo, Brazil – Jewelry robberies in Sao Paulo have seen a dramatic 13% increase in the first three months of 2025, according to data released by the state's Public Security Secretariat. More than 2,000 such crimes targeted residential properties, averaging 23 incidents per day. This alarming trend is raising concerns among residents and law enforcement alike. One particularly brazen incident occurred last week in a wealthy western neighborhood. Twenty thieves broke into a high-rise building, overpowering residents and staff in the building's elevator before robbing three apartments. They made off with luxury items, including jewelry, watches, electronics, and foreign currency. "It was almost like something out of a movie," said Magdalena Bonifiglio, an SBT News reporter on the scene. "The security footage shows the criminals calmly and efficiently carrying out their operation." No arrests have been made in the case. Alan Fernandes, a security specialist, commented on the situation, stating, "Gold has seen a price increase of over 20% in the last two years, making it a highly lucrative target for criminal gangs." He highlighted the significant profit potential driving this increase in robberies. The Sao Paulo Civil Police are actively investigating these crimes and working to apprehend those responsible. While the increase in robberies is concerning, the ongoing investigation offers hope for a resolution and increased security for residents.