After having a bit of a scary experience once when we first moved here, I have been scared to death of a little timid about any encounters with the police. I smile at the ones patrolling our area (which up until recently mostly consisted of sleeping in police cars, to be honest, but now they are on foot, the new mayor is really shaking things up), but am still pretty much paralyzed with fear anytime I see the black vehicles of the special forces units. I also refuse to watch Trope de Elite until we've left Brazil.
I'm coming around, which is a good thing since we've had some practice lately. As in three encounters in about as many weeks.
First, unexpectedly my doorman called up to tell me that a fellow from the Policia Federal was here to see me. I agreed for him to come up and then panicked a little and called Mr. DRL at work - Do I let him in? Mr. DRL told me to do what I was comfortable with and that he was coming home immediately to deal with the situation. We knew we'd have a home visit at some point, but didn't realize it was unscheduled.
The guy was really nice, and it was a great opportunity for me to practice my Portuguese. He asked me about my educational background in addition to Mr. DRL's, but seemed mostly concerned with whether or not we had additional family members living here and most importantly, health insurance. I felt a little like one of those movies like "Green Card" though when he asked questions about when Mr. DRL and I met, when did we start dating, etc. He also wanted to see photos of us together. But that was about it, and he was soon satisfied and went on his way.
On our way to Picinguaba, we were randomly stopped by the Military Police, who approached the car with machine guns in hand. Which I didn't like with my little Canadoca there! Mr. DRL was driving and was asked to step out of the vehicle, to open up the back, at which point I made eye contact with one of the officers and he smiled, and I knew everything would be a-ok (but I didn't make the a-ok symbol, b/c that doesn't mean a-ok in this country, remember?). Again, the experience was positive, they probably just saw all of our crazy baby gear in the back and figured we were up to no good.
Mr. DRL was detained at a Lei Seca checkstop on Friday night as well. So if these things come in 3's, I think we're good for awhile! All positive encounters, of which I'm happy to report.
You are very lucky that the road cop didn't shake you down. Whenever stopped and searched in a car, ALWAYS keep an eye on the police officer and follow him closely. They can plant a small bag of cocaine or pot in your car and blame you.
Also, make sure that your driver's license is Brazilian. As you are now considered residents, the 30 day grace period is over and you will have to get Brazilian driver's licenses. This is very important because if not, your insurance is null and void and even if an accident is not your fault, you will be held liable for all damages.
I learned this the hard way
Posted by: Canarioca | March 16, 2010 at 12:33 PM
Sometimes I wonder why we have this fear in Brazil. It really seems the police is not there to protect you. Maybe it is because we see so many cases of corruption... :(
Canarioca gave you good tips.. ALWAYS keep an eye... but don't let him notice that :p
Posted by: Jonas | March 16, 2010 at 09:49 PM
Wow, you've certainly have some encounters lately! I can't believe the PF came to your house for an interview. I need to get this license business done, Urgh. You've motiviated me. Detran, here I come, well soon at least. And, DON'T watch "Tropa de Elite" until you are back, good idea. It's extremely violent and disturbing.
Posted by: Account Deleted | March 17, 2010 at 10:48 AM
Canarioca - EEK! Really????? PS we do have our licenses... blog entry coming your way soon on THAT ordeal.
Jonas - read my other story about my scary situation, that's why I'm scared at least.
airlegs - I know, three is crazy. But things come in 3's right, so we're done! Have fun with the process... we should go for wine after you're finished that day!
Posted by: Daily Rio Life | March 17, 2010 at 09:08 PM
On a weekend trip to the Buzios, we were stopped by police and searched for drugs. They made us get out and searched all suitcases, and seats in the car. They were smelling everything in sight, and no smiling, just looked evil! I was VERY scared. The SIZE of the guns are what really put the fear in me...Anyways, they let us go after 10 minutes - but SHEW! I was not happy...
Posted by: Anne | April 02, 2010 at 12:12 AM