Report a Crime in Brazil: Clear Portuguese for the Police
Use simple, factual sentences to explain what happened, where it occurred, and what information you have about the incident.
Real Life Portuguese · 6 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Brazil's national emergency codes list 190 for Military Police. If there is an immediate threat or a crime in progress, contact emergency services. For a past incident, ask the local authority which reporting channel or station applies; processes can vary.
Use 190 for an immediate public-safety emergency
This article teaches communication phrases, not legal advice or a guarantee that a particular report will be accepted. Follow guidance from local authorities and your consulate when needed.
Preciso de ajuda da polícia. Há uma situação acontecendo agora.
I need police help. Something is happening right now.
Onde posso registrar uma ocorrência?
Where can I file a report?
Describe what happened in a factual order
Start with the event, then add the time and place. Use direct language and distinguish what you saw from what someone else told you. If a detail is uncertain, say that it is uncertain.
You can use roubaram when someone stole something from you, and perdi when you lost it. Be precise about the difference.
Levaram minha mochila na estação por volta das seis.
Someone took my backpack at the station around six.
Perdi meu documento, mas não sei onde.
I lost my document, but I don't know where.
Ask what information or next step is needed
If you have a passport or identification document, ask which details are useful and whether you need a copy of the report. Do not hand over original documents unless the official process requires it and you understand why.
Ask the officer to write down a name, protocol number, or instruction if you are unsure you understood it. Use a translation app or interpreter if a consequential detail is unclear.
Que informações preciso apresentar?
What information do I need to provide?
Pode escrever o número do protocolo, por favor?
Could you write down the reference number, please?
Put it into practice
For a crime in progress, 190 is the Military Police emergency number. For other reports, confirm the local process with the responsible authority.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “I need police help. Something is happening right now”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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