Sinop Ranks Third in Brazil for Underage Vulnerable Rape Cases
Sinop, a city located 481 km from Cuiabá in Mato Grosso, has the third-highest rate of vulnerable rape cases in Brazil, with 91.2 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants in 2025. These figures are from the 20th Brazilian Public Security Yearbook, released by the Brazilian Public Security Forum (FBSP). Despite Sinop's high ranking, Mato Grosso state as a whole saw a 19.5% reduction in vulnerable rape cases, decreasing from 2,040 occurrences in 2024 to 1,667 in 2025. However, the state recorded over 300 vulnerable rape cases in the first quarter of 2026. Vulnerable rape is defined as a sexual crime against victims under 14 years old or those unable to defend themselves due to intoxication or illness. Other cities with high rates include Boa Vista (RR) at 110.8 and Ariquemes (RO) at 102.6 cases per 100,000. Nationally, women constitute 93.3% of all rape victims, and girls under 14 represent 85.6% of vulnerable rape victims, with boys accounting for 14.4%. The yearbook also noted a record high in feminicides and the lowest murder rate since 2012.
The data highlights a significant disparity between national crime statistics and localized trends, particularly concerning vulnerable rape cases in Sinop. While the state of Mato Grosso shows a reduction in such crimes, Sinop's elevated rate suggests specific local factors warranting deeper investigation, potentially related to law enforcement effectiveness, community support systems, or socio-economic conditions. The overwhelming majority of victims being minors underscores the critical need for robust child protection frameworks and preventative education. Future policy considerations should focus on understanding and addressing the root causes of these localized high rates, rather than solely relying on aggregated state or national data, to ensure targeted and effective interventions in the coming decade.
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