Another Rideshare Driver Disappears in MT; Car Found Abandoned in Rondonópolis
The recent trend of disappearing rideshare drivers in Mato Grosso has raised significant alarm among local communities. On Friday, September 6, 2023, the vehicle of Paulo de Souza Freitas Júnior was discovered abandoned on a rural road in Rondonópolis, while the driver remains missing. This incident is part of a worrying pattern that has emerged in the state.
Details Surrounding Paulo de Souza Freitas Júnior’s Disappearance
Residents of the Celina Bezerra neighborhood reported finding a white BYD Mini Dolphin containing partially burned personal documents belonging to Paulo. His family lost contact with him on the evening of September 5, around 8:40 PM.
Increasing Incidents of Disappearances
This is the third reported case of a rideshare driver going missing in less than two months. All cases involve drivers of rideshare vehicles found abandoned or burned.
- Isac Cassemiro dos Santos: Disappeared in late January 2023 after traveling from San Matías, Bolivia to Mato Grosso. His red Hyundai Creta was later discovered completely charred near BR-163.
- Francicleiton Pereira Costa: Found deceased after his vehicle was located burnt in a wooded area in Novo Mundo, Cuiabá, in mid-January. His death showed signs of violence, and the investigation is ongoing.
Community Concerns and Reactions
The string of disappearances has left rideshare drivers and local residents feeling anxious. Emanoel, a rideshare driver in Cuiabá, expressed his fears, stating, “When such cases occur, it creates a sense of fear and insecurity about returning home after work.” This sentiment is echoed among many drivers concerned for their safety.
Police Investigation
The Civil Police of Mato Grosso is currently investigating these cases. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of a connection between the disappearances, indicating a potential pattern or involvement of a criminal element.
The alarming frequency of these incidents demands urgent attention and action from law enforcement to ensure the safety of rideshare drivers in the region.
