Brazilian authorities have apprehended a 22-year-old escort suspected of drugging and robbing tourists, including multiple foreign travelers. The arrest of Cláudio Rafael Silva de Queiroz de Pontes in Cabo Frio was confirmed by the Special Tourist Support Police Station and Ipanema’s 13th Precinct. Cláudio, who impersonated a male escort, was wanted for robbery and criminal association.
According to the police, Cláudio was part of a criminal group that targeted tourists, especially gay men, through dating apps to lure them to beach or bar meetings. The victims were allegedly given spiked drinks, leading to theft of cash, phones, and other valuables, with their bank accounts being emptied through transfers and withdrawals. Three suspected accomplices are currently evading capture.
Incidents involving Cláudio include a Mexican tourist meeting him on a dating app at Ipanema Beach, where the tourist lost consciousness after consuming drinks. Other victims, including an Italian man and two Chilean tourists, fell prey to the same scam in different locations, resulting in significant financial losses. Another case involves a man from Pernambuco who lost belongings and money after interacting with a gang member.
Detective Patrícia Alemany stated that the gang selectively targeted affluent individuals, often foreigners or older men, based on their perceived wealth. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects, while Cláudio awaits a custody hearing at José Frederico Marques Public Prison. Authorities have not disclosed Cláudio’s statement, and his legal representatives have not been reachable for comment.
