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Briton Drugged on Ipanema Beach Highlights Rio Scam Surge
A British tourist was drugged and robbed on Ipanema Beach in a scam that has raised safety concerns for visitors to Rio de Janeiro.
A British tourist was drugged and robbed on Rio de Janeiro's Ipanema Beach in a scam linked to sex workers, prompting police probes and tourism safety warnings.
Briton Drugged on Ipanema Beach Highlights Rio Scam Surge
A British tourist was drugged and robbed after meeting three women on a night out in Rio de Janeiro. Footage shows the man collapsing on Ipanema Beach after drinking a cocktail handed to him by the suspects. Police say the drink was spiked with a date rape drug, and the victim had more than 16,000 pounds stolen from his account. The suspects, named as Amanda Couto Deloca, Mayara Ketelyn Americo da Silva, and Raiane Campos de Oliveira, were later identified and arrested. Police and local volunteers helped bring the case to authorities, and officers are reviewing CCTV and toxicology reports so they can charge the suspects. The incident is part of a wider pattern of scams targeting visitors, with authorities warning travelers to stay vigilant when socialising with strangers.
Two British students were targeted in the same night out, with one reporting that he threw his phone away to avoid losing it while the other recounted a ten day trip that ended with a frightening encounter. Investigators say the suspects are linked to sex work and dating scams used to lure tourists, and they are pursuing additional leads including the taxi driver who ferried the women away. The Special Tourism Support Unit has urged visitors to be cautious and to report suspicious behavior promptly as the pattern draws more attention from local police and travel safety groups.
Key Takeaways
"Two sips, then nothing"
Victim describes the moment the drug took effect
"I called the emergency services and they confirmed police and an ambulance were on their way"
Witness describes response
"Maybe I’ll come back one day but for now I think it’s enough of this country"
Visitor expresses caution
"I must have realised what was going on and threw my phone"
Witness action to preserve belongings
This case exposes the tightrope between Brazil's vibrant tourist draw and its real safety risks. When street scams mix with drugging and theft, public confidence can falter fast. Officials face the challenge of translating arrests into convictions while also addressing the broader ecosystem that enables these crimes, including nightlife venues, transportation links, and online dating tactics that lure travelers. For Brazil, the incident could influence how abroad publicity frames the country as a destination, pushing policymakers to invest in prevention, better policing, and clearer visitor guidance. The outcome may hinge on swift investigations, transparent police work, and visible safety measures that reassure visitors without tarnishing a country known for its culture and beauty.
Highlights
- Two sips, then nothing
- I called the emergency services and they confirmed help was on the way
- Maybe I’ll come back one day but for now I think it’s enough of this country
- I must have realised what was going on and threw my phone
Tourist safety risk in Rio scam rise
The incident underscores a growing pattern of drugging and theft targeting visitors in Rio de Janeiro, raising concerns about tourist safety and the effectiveness of local enforcement. Authorities will need to demonstrate results to maintain Brazil’s image as a travel destination.
A safer travel environment depends on effective policing and clear guidance for visitors.
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