New status symbol for criminals even yields music and increases occurrence records; Insurers already predict an increase in policies because of the higher risk
Crime in the state of Rio de Janeiro has chosen a new target on the streets: electric and hybrid vehicles. According to data from the Union of Insurers of Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo (SindSeg-RJ), released by O Globo, robberies and thefts of these models jumped 144% in the first quarter of 2026, compared to the same period of the previous year.
The rate of occurrences involving the category raises the alert of both public security authorities and the financial market, which already projects an immediate increase in the cost of policies. Meanwhile, the preference of drug traffickers for electrified cars has already become the subject of funk songs, which register the existence of this new target of criminality.
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Investigations by the Rio de Janeiro Civil Police point out that the preference for electric models, which often cost more than R$ 200 thousand, goes beyond dismantling or cloning. Automobiles have become symbols of ostentation for drug kingpins at events and dances within areas dominated by armed factions.
The great logistical attraction for criminals, however, is the zero cost of supply. Taking advantage of the clandestine connections already existing in the communities, the gangs use the famous energy “cats” to recharge their batteries. This eliminates the need to frequent conventional gas stations, drastically reducing exposure to police stops on highways and avenues.
The rapid escalation of crimes has a direct impact on the insurance industry. With the jump in statistics, SindSeg-RJ warns of an inevitable pressure on the cost of asset protection. The scenario points to a general increase in the prices of insurance in the electrified line. In areas with a critical history of violence, such as São Gonçalo and Itaboraí, there is a real possibility of risk refusal by insurance companies, leaving owners without support.
The fleet in the state of Rio de Janeiro currently has about 33,590 electrified units. Although they represent only 0.4% of the total number of vehicles in circulation, the high concentration of these cars in specific urban areas facilitates the tactical action of the gangs.
To try to contain the criminal advance and dismantle the logistical chain of the robbery, the Civil Police is betting on Operation Tourniquet. The task force, which focuses on the financial asphyxiation of criminal groups, has already accumulated more than 900 arrests, in addition to the continuous recovery of stolen goods and luxury vehicles.
