Prisoners climbed a light fixture and cut through a fence in an escape from a maximum-security prison in Mossoró.

247 - Two inmates, Deibson Cabral Nascimento and Rogério da Silva Mendonça, allegedly associated with the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), were involved in an incident. A stunning escape from the maximum-security prison in Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte., in the early hours of the morning, around 3:17 am.

The escapees surprised authorities by climbing one of the light fixtures, gaining access to the roof of the facility, and cutting through the security fence before making the audacious leap to freedom. The escape, which has baffled authorities, raises questions about the security of the prison system and triggers an intensive investigation.

Investigators are baffled by the lack of answers regarding how the fugitives managed to overcome at least three security barriers – the cell, the corridor, and the yard – without being detected by the CCTV surveillance systems. Suspicions of human error or co-optation linger, fueling the mystery surrounding the meticulous planning behind the escape, according to a report by [source name]. CNN Brazil. 

The Ministry of Justice has expressed concerns about a possible reduction in security at the prison unit due to ongoing construction work in the Federal Penitentiary's courtyard, which may have facilitated the escape. According to Ministry officials, the deactivation of a metal detector and the suspension of the search procedure by prison officers may have contributed to the escape.

This is the first recorded escape from a maximum-security prison since the implementation of the Federal Penitentiary System, which encompasses five units across the country. Security forces are mobilized in an intensive search operation to locate the fugitives, with the Federal Police leading the efforts.

State authorities are also involved, with the Military Police of Rio Grande do Norte receiving the call to reinforce search operations from the early hours of the morning. In addition, the state's Public Security Secretariat has intensified surveillance measures on roads near the borders with Paraíba and Ceará, while conducting flights to assist in the search.

The Mossoró Federal Penitentiary, inaugurated in 2009 and located approximately 280 kilometers from the capital Natal, was designed to house up to 208 prisoners. The facilities include individual cells where inmates spend most of their day, as well as well-equipped dining halls and regularly provided personal hygiene kits.