Brazilian Woman Arrested in Portugal, Accused of Poisoning Five Children
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A 40-year-old Brazilian national, Gisele Oliveira, was apprehended Tuesday in Coimbra, Portugal, on an international warrant issued by Europol, and is suspected of systematically poisoning five of her children over a period of years. The alleged homicides, which occurred between 2008 and 2023, came to light after a family member’s suspicions prompted a formal investigation and subsequent arrest.
International Manhunt and Capture
The arrest, carried out by Inspectors of the Judicial Police Criminal Information Unit (UIC), marks the culmination of an international manhunt. Oliveira had fled Brazil after authorities began to suspect a connection between the deaths of her children and deliberate criminal activity. A Brazilian court issued a red notice through Interpol, leading to her capture in Portugal. According to reports, Oliveira “resisted detention” during the arrest.
Years of Alleged Poisoning
Investigators believe Oliveira administered large doses of sedatives to her five children, resulting in their deaths. The children died in three separate instances – two in 2010, two in 2019, and two in 2023 – with their deaths initially attributed to health problems. The crimes reportedly took place in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, primarily at night within the family home.
Europol has emphasized Oliveira’s “criminal intention” in the case, suggesting the poisonings were not accidental. A senior official stated that the evidence points to a deliberate and sustained effort to harm the children.
Life in Portugal and Extradition Proceedings
Oliveira had been residing in Coimbra since May, living with a Brazilian companion who supported her financially through construction work. She had no known profession of her own during this time.
She is scheduled to appear before the Coimbra Court of Appeal on Wednesday, where authorities will seek to apply coercive measures for her extradition back to Brazil. If convicted in Brazil, Oliveira could face up to 154 years in prison.
The case, brought to light by the victim’s grandmother, highlights the devastating consequences of familial betrayal and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children.
