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Rio de Janeiro police are employing unconventional tactics to combat a surge in cellphone thefts during the city’s vibrant Carnival celebrations. Officers have been disguising themselves as popular characters – including thieves from the Netflix series “Money Heist” and the horror icon Jason Voorhees – to blend into the crowds and apprehend criminals, a strategy that highlights the ongoing struggle with petty crime amidst the festivities.

Carnival officially began on Friday, drawing millions of revelers to Rio’s street parties, and parades. However, the large gatherings also present opportunities for thieves, making cellphone theft a significant concern for attendees. The Santa Teresa neighborhood saw officers implementing the disguise strategy on Friday, successfully arresting two individuals involved in a phone snatching, according to Rio’s civil police.

The operation involved undercover agents observing a woman allegedly stealing a cellphone and then tracking her as she passed the device to an accomplice. Police recovered five stolen cellphones during the arrest. This isn’t an isolated incident; Brazilian law enforcement has increasingly turned to costumed undercover work during Carnival and other large events.

Just last Sunday, officers in São Paulo, dressed as “Ghostbusters” characters, apprehended a woman with 12 stolen cellphones in the downtown area. Prior to that, officers disguised as aliens caught a man with three phones concealed under his clothing. These tactics demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing a persistent problem during peak tourist and celebration seasons.

While the use of disguises may seem novel, data suggests a broader trend of declining cellphone thefts in Brazil. A report by the Brazilian Forum on Public Safety think-tank indicates that cellphone thefts decreased from approximately 980,000 in 2022 to around 850,000 in 2024. Despite this decline, public concern regarding crime and violence remains high in Brazil, consistently ranking as a top issue in opinion polls.

The recent arrests in Rio involved suspects with extensive criminal records. According to the BBC, the two individuals detained had a combined 30 prior offenses. Police also noted that the female suspect allegedly feigned pregnancy in an attempt to avoid arrest.

This operation, dubbed “Operation Tracking,” is a state-level initiative focused on combating the theft and resale of mobile phones. Authorities report that the initiative has led to the recovery of over 13,000 devices and the return of approximately 4,400 to their owners. Similar tactics have been employed in other Latin American countries, with Peruvian police frequently using elaborate costumes during holidays like Valentine’s Day, Halloween, and Christmas.

The use of these methods reflects a broader strategy to adapt to the challenges of policing large-scale public events. The success of these undercover operations will likely influence future security measures during Carnival and similar festivals.

As Carnival continues through next Saturday, authorities will likely maintain a heightened presence and continue to utilize innovative strategies to deter crime and ensure the safety of both residents and visitors. The focus will remain on protecting attendees from theft and maintaining order amidst the celebrations.

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Bristol’s The Bank Tavern, a slight pub with a decades-long history, has once again captured international attention for its extraordinarily popular Sunday roast. Reservations for the entirety of 2026 were fully booked in just eleven minutes on January 1st, according to reports, demonstrating the fervent demand for a meal that has been lauded as one of the best in the UK. The speed of bookings surpassed even last year’s record, and was three times faster than ticket sales for Taylor Swift’s concert in Zurich, Switzerland, according to 20 Minuten.

The Bank Tavern, established in the 1800s, has become a local institution, surviving numerous historical events, including riots and two World Wars. Despite its unassuming appearance – described as having “a uniquely inhospitable environment” by the pub itself – the establishment has garnered accolades for its food, particularly its Sunday lunch. In 2019, it was crowned the home of Bristol’s best Sunday Lunch at the Observer Food Monthly Awards, following a similar recognition from the Bristol Decent Food Awards in 2018, as noted on The Bank Tavern’s website.

The appeal of The Bank Tavern’s Sunday roast extends beyond local acclaim. The pub’s menu features locally sourced ingredients, with meat coming from within 30 miles of Bristol, and offers both traditional meat options and vegetarian alternatives. The preparation of the gravy alone takes three days, beginning with roasting the bones, demonstrating a commitment to quality and flavor. The menu changes seasonally, offering options like lamb, pheasant, and venison alongside staples like beef, pork, and chicken.

Pub owner Sam Gregory expressed a mixture of gratitude and anxiety regarding the continued demand. “Each time, the waves of anxiety that come over me are whether we’ll sell out at all,” Gregory told CNN. “There are so many fantastic places to eat in Bristol. We’re incredibly lucky people continue to make the effort to book in with us … We don’t seize that for granted!”

A Traditional British Meal in High Demand

The “Sunday Lunch,” or “Sunday Roast,” is a cornerstone of British culinary tradition. Typically served on Sunday afternoons, it consists of a roasted meat, roast potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy. The Bank Tavern’s version has elevated this classic meal to a level of exclusivity rarely seen in the hospitality industry. The pub serves three sittings, with the last service potentially as late as 4:15 PM, to accommodate the high volume of reservations.

What Makes The Bank Tavern’s Roast So Special?

Beyond the quality of ingredients and meticulous preparation, Gregory attributes the pub’s success to the dedication of his kitchen staff. “Our chefs love their job,” he explained to CNN. “They are incredibly proud of every plate that goes out. Exactly that comes across to the guests. They taste that everything is prepared with a lot of love and care.” This emphasis on passion and quality appears to resonate with diners, creating a loyal following and driving the unprecedented booking rates.

The Bank Tavern’s popularity also stems from a sense of nostalgia and tradition. Gregory himself recalls the importance of Sunday lunch during his childhood, emphasizing the communal aspect of the meal. “There was never much food in the house, and yet my mother always conjured up a fantastic Sunday dinner – and we all sat together at the table,” he said.

Looking Ahead

With the 2026 calendar already fully booked, prospective diners will need to plan well in advance for future opportunities. Reservations for subsequent years are expected to open on January 1st, requiring swift action to secure a table. The Bank Tavern’s continued success highlights the enduring appeal of traditional British cuisine and the power of a dedicated team committed to quality and hospitality. The pub’s story serves as a reminder that even in a world of culinary innovation, a well-executed classic can achieve extraordinary popularity.

What are your thoughts on the hype surrounding restaurants and specific dishes? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!