Gang linked to similar heists suspected in Santa Rita bank assault

Authorities in Paraguay are pursuing a criminal group suspected of carrying out a major bank assault in Santa Rita, identifying them as the likely perpetrators of similar heists in Naranjal and other regions. Prosecutor Rocío González stated that the investigation has already identified individuals involved.

The group, comprising both Paraguayan and Brazilian nationals, possesses a lengthy history of bank and armored car robberies. González indicated that the same gang is believed to be responsible for two previous attacks in Naranjal, as well as other significant robberies across the country.

During the Santa Rita incident, investigators found only 1 million Paraguayan guaranis in the vault of Banco Familiar. At Banco GNB, four bags of cash were recovered, with the total amount still under calculation. A local resident also handed over a bag containing approximately $2,500 in various denominations.

Banco Ueno, which lacks a physical vault and operates primarily online, reported no significant cash losses. Meanwhile, explosives planted at the Santa Rita currency exchange failed to detonate. Investigations suggest the criminal structure has been involved in multiple large-scale robberies, including two against financial institutions in Naranjal and others in the Itapúa department. A key suspect in explosives expertise is identified as Kaio César Bonotto Cavalcante, 34, known as “Bocón,” allegedly a member of the First Command Capital (PCC) and a fugitive in Brazil.