Patos de Minas has recently witnessed a string of criminal activities, including armed robberies and violent assaults, raising concerns among the local community.
On the morning of January 31, police were alerted to the robbery of a bakery located in the Nova Floresta neighborhood. Two assailants, arriving on a red motorcycle, executed the crime swiftly. According to the Military Police, one robber entered the bakery demanding money from the attendant, displaying the handle of a revolver. Amidst fear, the victim handed over approximately R$500, which the robber initially accepted but soon insisted she include higher denomination bills under threat of violence.
After the robbery, the assailants fled on the motorcycle, prompting police actions. Investigations revealed the suspects had been captured on security cameras approaching the establishment prior to the crime. The motorcycle was described as lacking mirrors and identification plates, making it difficult for authorities to track them effectively.
Just hours later, police responded to another alarming incident on the same date. A couple, aged 38 and 28, attacked and robbed a 55-year-old man who had just bought ice. The assault occurred as he returned home, where they attacked him from behind. Witnesses reported the man wearing a black jacket and shorts as he punched the victim, followed by both assailants kicking him. The couple made off with the man’s wallet, containing nearly R$300 and various bank cards, leaving the victim with visible injuries.
Fortunately, police were able to utilize radio communications effectively, passing on descriptions of the robbers. Soon after, they located the 38-year-old man on Avenida Paranaíba. Officers found five cards bearing the victim's name and other stolen possessions, including cash and even a drone, which had been reported stolen from another victim some days prior. The young female accomplice was traced and also confessed to her role once apprehended.
Adding to the community's distress, the New Year's Eve saw the capture of yet another young man who had been evading police. The 21-year-old was riding a motorcycle without any license plate. Police observed his reckless driving during routine patrol and signaled him to stop; instead, he accelerated and sped through streets, performing dangerous maneuvers. Eventually, he lost control and crashed against the wall of a residence. Following the incident, it was discovered he had removed the identification from the motorcycle, claiming he wanted to participate in what he called a 'rolezinho', which roughly translates as social gathering or street event.
After sustaining some injuries, the young man was taken to the regional hospital where he received treatment before being taken to the Patos de Minas police station.
The incidents have stirred discussions within the community about rising crime rates and the safety of residents. Police continue to investigate these crimes, striving to restore order and peace within Patos de Minas.