A terrifying scene unfolded at Manauara Shopping in Manaus on Saturday, December 14, 2024, as armed robbers executed a brazen daylight heist at around 11:10 AM, leaving shoppers and employees shaken.
The incident reportedly began when at least three armed assailants stormed the Vivara jewelry store located on the upper floor of the mall. Eyewitness accounts described the chaotic moment when shots rang out, causing immediate panic. Customers and store staff hurried for safety, with some being forced to hide in stockrooms as the assailants attempted to make their getaway.
Video footage circulated on social media captures the distressing moments of the shootout, showing armed suspects fleeing as shots echoed throughout the shopping center. An image from the security camera footage reveals the dramatic scenes as some customers shouted and ran for cover.
According to reports, the police response was swift. Within moments, local law enforcement, including the military police, arrived at the scene. They engaged the suspects, which led to one suspect, identified as 34-year-old Clenilton Lima, being apprehended. Lima was reportedly discovered hiding in the nearby vegetation of the mall’s food court area, attempting to evade capture.
Following his arrest, police recovered four luxury watches believed to have been stolen during the robbery. Fortunately, reports indicate no injuries from the shootout, which is something of a relief considering how quickly events unfolded.
Although Lima was apprehended, details about the other assailants remain murky. Police have not confirmed the exact number of suspects involved or their current whereabouts. They are reportedly searching for additional individuals who may have participated or assisted in the robbery.
“The shots reportedly began as the criminals reacted to the arrival of police at the shopping center,” stated Anézio Paiva, Secretary of Public Security of Amazonas, during a press update.
After the incident, Manauara Shopping was widely closed to all patrons as law enforcement conducted thorough searches and assessed the scene for any potential threats. The shopping center officially reopened around 3 PM, with express protocols being put in place to bolster security.
Reflecting on the incident, the shopping administration emphasized their commitment to the safety of guests. “We took all necessary measures to secure the location and continue cooperating with authorities. There were no injuries, and the shopping center will be reopened shortly,” they stated.
The public has expressed concerns about safety protocols at shopping venues following such violent occurrences, sparking discussions on improved security measures aimed at deterring future incidents. Increasing surveillance and visible police presence might be steps contemplated moving forward to restore public confidence.
Police continue to pursue leads on the remaining fugitives related to the robbery. Delegado Geral Bruno Fraga noted, “Our officers are actively tracking down the other individuals involved. We’ve obtained surveillance from the incident and are working to identify the escape routes used by the gang during their getaway.”
Authorities remind the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities within the community. The continued investigation is considered of prime importance, not just for the victims, but to uphold the safety standards expected at commercial centers.
Local officials are adamant about restoring safety and order at the shopping complex, which is typically popular among families and shoppers. The community's resilience will undoubtedly be tested as they assess the incident's impact and move forward to implement safety protocols.
