Gang steals $40 mi in Paraguay, three suspects die in clash with Brazil police

Three robbers that broke into the headquarters of Prosegur, a company based in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, that provides the transport of valuables, died Monday (Apr. 24) during a clash with the Federal Police and the Highway Police of Brazil. The robbery took place in the early hours today. Some 50 people took part in the crime, and stole approximately $40 million.

Three vehicles used by the gang were located in Brazilian territory, police reported. No information has been disclosed on the recovery of the amount stolen.

A chase was reported early in the afternoon involving a truck with eight to ten people who participated in the robbery. The robbers pulled over on highway BR-277, in Brazil, and the clash broke out. Two died on the scene; one was wounded, received medical attention, but died after reaching the hospital. The others managed to escape.

Brazil President Michel Temer had put the country's Federal Police at the disposal of Paraguayan authorities to probe into the case. Paraguayan newspaper La Nación reported that the heist was spearheaded by members of  Brazilian criminal organization Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), who also assaulted the government and the police headquarters. One officer died while fighting the robbers.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira