Known as the Chapolin, a simple device resembling a gate remote control is used to steal cars without the knowledge of the owner. The device emits radio signals that interfere with the car key signal and prevent the car from being locked. The revolution is not new, but recent crimes in Goias and Manaus drew attention to the use of Chapolin.

To carry out the theft, the perpetrator positions himself next to the victim’s car with the Chapolin, and as soon as the user activates the button on the key to lock the car, the perpetrator activates the Chapolin, interfering with the emitted signal. Since it is very difficult to determine the only recommendation to avoid becoming a victim is to check if the car is really locked.

The civil police of the State of Goiás have ordered the preventive detention of 27-year-old Francisjunio Gomez de Souza, who is suspected of being involved in 50 cases of vehicle theft that took place in Goiás. If involvement in crimes committed between January and September 2020 is proven, the suspect may be charged with qualified theft, a criminal offense punishable by up to 8 years in prison.

With lower IPI, cars in Brazil will be cheaper; see new price 10 bestsellers
Federal Decree No. 10979 will take effect this week.

Gang arrested in Manaus

Last Wednesday (23) four criminals were arrested in Manaus, suspected of several car thefts using the Chapolin device. Iliarde Galdino da Costa and David Freitas dos Santos tried to steal a police car, believing it to be a civilian car, in the parking lot of a supermarket, where they were arrested red-handed. The duo then denounced two other partners, Gion Placido Amazonas da Cunha and Juadan da Silva, who were waiting nearby.

The gang has already been under investigation since late 2021 for committing several car thefts in the Manaus area. When arrested red-handed, criminals will be responsible for skilled theft and criminal association.

…..

Source: UOL, Emtempo