Theft and Vandalism Prompting Increased Security Investments at Port of Santos

Freight trains transporting goods to the Port of Santos have become frequent targets of theft and vandalism, resulting in severe economic losses. In response, railway companies have been ramping up investments in private security and advanced technologies to mitigate the issue.

According to railway service providers and public authorities, these crimes are orchestrated by criminal organizations that specialize in cargo theft for resale on the black market. High-value commodities such as soybeans, sugar, meat, and fuel are among the most targeted.

Rumo, one of the region’s leading railway operators, reported a notable increase in theft and vandalism along the rail line in Cubatão. “While crime rates remained relatively stable throughout 2024 compared to 2023, there was a concerning surge in incidents during December,” the company stated in a press release.

“The actions of drug users and organized criminal networks stealing cargo for illicit resale continue to jeopardize not only rail operations but also public safety in the region,” Rumo added. Although the company declined to disclose the exact number of incidents or the total amount invested in security, it emphasized that security will remain a top priority in 2025.

“The company has invested substantial amounts in private security, exceeding tens of millions. Additional funds will be allocated to new technologies and integrated training programs between public and private security forces, reinforcing protection strategies against criminal networks threatening rail operations.”

Rumo also noted ongoing collaboration with São Paulo State’s Public Security Secretariat (SSP) and the Military and Civil Police forces. The company has requested additional support from Cubatão’s Municipal Civil Guard, particularly in Vila Natal and Vila Esperança, neighborhoods plagued by irregular settlements and drug activity.

Other Railway Operators

MRS, another rail operator, states that “incidents are sporadic and far less significant than other transportation modes.” Nevertheless, the company has invested in new technologies and monitoring systems and expanded its on-ground security teams.

“We trust that the relevant authorities will continue working to address this issue,” MRS noted, reaffirming its readiness to assist in ensuring that rail transport remains one of the country’s safest and most efficient freight alternatives.

Similarly, VLI emphasized its commitment to security, explaining that its asset protection teams conduct regular patrols and maintain round-the-clock monitoring. In this specific region, VLI deploys 24-hour security teams to ensure the safety of operational staff, the integrity of transported cargo, and the protection of railcars and locomotives. ”

VLI further highlighted the critical role of public security authorities in combating regional criminal activity, which harms freight transport and the broader Brazilian economy.

Port of Santos Handled 481,400 Railcars in 11 Months

The Santos Port Authority (APS) reported that from January to November 2024, the Port of Santos processed 481,400 railcars, nearly matching the volume handled during the same period in 2023.

With 487,600 railcars operated over the full year of 2023, APS estimates that 2024 could close with a record 17.6% increase in railcar throughput. December figures have yet to be finalized.

Regarding the types of cargo transported from January to November, 415,700 railcars carried agricultural bulk commodities (85.6%), 26,900 carried mineral bulk (5.7%), 21,100 handled containers (4.5%), and 17,700 carried general cargo (3.33%), marking an increase compared to 2023 (2.6%). Most of the general cargo in 2023 consisted of cellulose products.

APS clarified that “in general, mineral bulk commodities are inbound (imports), primarily fertilizers, while other cargo types are predominantly outbound (exports).”

Source: A Tribuna

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