Procurados

Procurados is a term used in law enforcement to designate individuals who are actively sought by authorities, typically because they are suspects under arrest warrants or persons at large in connection with criminal investigations. The word Procurado in Portuguese literally means someone who is sought or looked for.

In practice, lists and posters bearing the label procurados are circulated by police agencies and justice systems to inform the public and solicit tips. These announcements often include the person’s name, photograph, age or date of birth, physical description, last known location, the alleged crime, case number, and the date the warrant or notice was issued. They may be published on official portals, in police stations, in media outlets, on social media, or as part of public warning campaigns. Some jurisdictions also offer rewards for information leading to the location and apprehension of a procurado.

Legal and international aspects often intersect with the concept. An arrest warrant or judicial order is typically required to declare someone procurado legally, and some cases involve international notices, such as Interpol’s Red Notice, to locate and apprehend fugitives across borders. Not all procurados are missing persons; some are fugitives who may still be at large, while others might be located and detained following new information.

Public awareness campaigns, privacy considerations, and safety concerns shape how procurados are communicated and managed, balancing the need to inform the public with the rights of individuals involved. See also: fugitivo, mandado de prisão, Interpol, aviso vermelho.