Security cameras images helped the police identify João Ricardo Rangel Mendes; After being located in his apartment, he tried to escape, but was arrested on the terrace
Former CEO of the Hurb Tourism Platform, João Ricardo Rangel Mendes, was arrested last Friday (25) in the act for stealing works of art from a luxury hotel and an architectural office, both located in Barra da Tijuca, West Zone of. The works, including sculptures and paintings, total about R $ 28 thousand in estimated value. According to, Mendes, 44, used the same motorcycle to commit both thefts.
Security camera images helped identify the entrepreneur as the person responsible for the crimes. After being located in his apartment, he tried to escape, but was arrested on the terrace. Inside his residence, three ceramic sculptures and one of the subtracted paintings were found, totaling R $ 23,000. A painting has not yet been recovered.
Mendes’ arrest occurs after a series of controversy involving his career at the head of HURB, which culminated in his resignation to CEO in April 2023. The company faces financial problems and received hundreds of complaints from clients about inadequate reserves and services.
Mendes was also involved in investigations related to the financial pyramid CPI, and HURB had its registration canceled in the register in April 2025, after allegations of non -compliance with contracts and a high volume of complaints. The company did not officially comment on the arrest of its former CEO. The Civil Police continues to investigate the case and seeking the recovery of the last works of stolen art. Mendes was charged at the 16th DP (Barra da Tijuca) for the crime of theft.
Published by Felipe Dantas
*Report produced with the aid of AI
