Train Arson on Santos Supply Line Prompts Police Surge on São Paulo Rail Corridor

Overview

• A Rumo freight train carrying about 900 tonnes of cellulose was deliberately set on fire late Nov. 26 as it moved from São Vicente toward Cubatão.
• Firefighters worked through the night with water tankers and heavy machinery to remove and cool the highly flammable cargo, and no injuries were reported.
• State authorities say the case is under confidential investigation by the 1st DIG of Deic in Santos, which is also reviewing connections to a recent series of rail attacks in the region.
• The Military Police mobilized roughly 30 agents to deter further incidents and identify suspects, with patrols focused near communities along the line such as Vila Esperança.
• Officials and the operator report thieves target cargo and train parts for resale, and the state public security office said diesel was used to ignite the blaze, raising concerns over interruptions to shipments bound for the Port of Santos.