Brazilian Pilot Arrested for Alleged Child Exploitation Ring at São Paulo Airport
A 60-year-old pilot for LATAM Airlines was apprehended on board an aircraft at Congonhas Airport in São Paulo, Brazil, on Monday, after authorities alleged he operated a widespread paedophile ring by paying families substantial sums of money to gain access to their children. Sergio Antonio Lopes, a married father of two who had recently returned from his honeymoon with his new wife, was taken away in handcuffs shortly before take-off, according to reports from The Mirror.
Strategic Arrest at Airport Due to Frequent Travel
Authorities stated that the arrest was deliberately executed at the airport because Lopes is a frequent flyer and was difficult to locate at his residence in Guararema, a town within the metropolitan region of São Paulo state. This tactical move ensured his capture without alerting him, as he was preparing for another flight.
Shocking Allegations and Network Details
Police investigations reveal that Lopes is suspected of leading an organised network involved in the sexual abuse and exploitation of children and adolescents, which is believed to have been operating for at least eight years. Allegedly, he used forged identity documents to transport minors to motels where the abuse occurred. His new wife, a psychologist, was left shocked upon learning about his alleged structured network, and authorities have ruled out her involvement in the racket.
Payments, Financial Support, and Evidence
Officials further alleged that Lopes paid for images and videos of victims, with payments typically ranging from BRL 30 (approximately £4) to BRL 100 (approximately £14). Police claimed that he also provided financial assistance to families linked to the case, including purchasing food, medication, household items, paying rent, and, in some instances, buying appliances. Speaking at a press conference, police chief Ivalda Aleixo, head of the State Department of Homicides and Protection of Persons (DHPP), stated that abuse occurred whenever Lopes had physical contact with the victims.
Grandmother Arrested in Same Operation
As part of the same operation, a 55-year-old grandmother, Denise Moreno, was arrested on suspicion of "selling" her three granddaughters, aged 10, 12, and 14, to the pilot in exchange for money. Police alleged that she also helped arrange meetings between the minors and Lopes at motels in São Paulo, highlighting the extensive nature of the exploitation network.
