Shocking video shows bandits rob motorists in Rio de Janeiro traffic jam ahead of Olympics
Gang pounces to rob helpless drivers as a family with young children can be seen running for cover in a nearby building
RUTHLESS bandits pounced on unsuspecting motorists stuck in traffic in Rio de Janeiro.
With just eight days to go before the start of the Olympics in Brazil on 5 August, lawlessness on Rio’s streets appears rampant.
And tourists are being warned to be on the alert for trawler gangs following cars on motorbikes and attacking when the vehicle comes to a halt.
Security cameras captured the shocking moment three robbers wearing crash helmets, pulled open car doors and pointed guns at defenceless drivers caught in an evening traffic jam in Flamengo, the South Zone of Rio.
It’s believed one motorist was wrenched out of his vehicle and robbed, but a tree obscures the full attack.
However, seconds later, the recording clearly shows another criminal tugging on the locked door of the car behind while pointing his weapon.
The terrified driver opens the door, climbs out with his hands up and kneels down on the floor.
But that’s not enough for the thug who kicks and forces the man to lie down with his arms above his head on the tarmac.
While that gangster goes off to continue his mugging spree, another comes up and takes over.
The villain rummages through the victim’s pocket.
He then checks inside the car and forces the owner to get up and to hand over his keys to the vehicle.
Without looking back the driver walks away as the bandit runs off to help his accomplice who is assaulting another motorist a few cars ahead in the queue.
The incident happened in one of the busiest neighbourhoods in Rio on Tuesday, around 7.30pm.
At least eight drivers were robbed of their money and possessions, and one car stolen.
According to reports, the criminals were following a couple of vehicles and launched their attack as the cars stopped at red lights.
The gang shouted: “You’re done for now, give up all your stuff. We know where you've come from. We’ve been following you.”
Two women passing by with children were so frightened they hastily entered a nearby building for protection.
The crime shocked locals who live and work in the area.
Many angrily complained that despite all the heavily armed security forces drafted into protect Rio during the Olympics, not one policeman was available when the terrifying assault happened.
A police spokesperson said an investigation into the incident is underway.