Missing Driver: Search for App Driver in Belo Horizonte, Brazil

App Driver Missing in Belo Horizonte, Family Appeals for Information

February 2, 2026 – A 34-year-old app driver, Miqueias Maciel Silva, has been missing since leaving his home in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, to pick up a vehicle from a rental company. His family is urgently seeking information regarding his whereabouts.

According to family members, Miqueias left his residence in the Juliana neighborhood, in the northern part of the capital city, around 9:00 AM on Monday, February 2nd. He maintained contact with his mother and sister until 12:35 PM, after which messages stopped arriving and his cell phone became unreachable.

The family describes Miqueias as a calm individual with no history of conflict or involvement in illicit activities. They are deeply concerned for his safety and well-being.

Reportedly, Miqueias was excited about obtaining a better vehicle for work and had recently returned a previous rental car. He also works in cell phone maintenance.

Authorities have been notified and the family is pleading for any information that might lead to Miqueias’s location. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Civil Police at 197 or the anonymous tip line, Disque-Denúncia, at 181.

The disappearance comes amid broader concerns regarding the safety of app-based transportation workers in Belo Horizonte. In November 2023, a separate incident involving an app driver being shot in the face by a military police officer garnered attention. The victim in that case lost an eye, and the officer was arrested. An app driver was arrested earlier on suspicion of raping a passenger after allegedly deviating from the route and making inappropriate comments.

Uber provides opportunities for individuals seeking driver positions in Belo Horizonte, offering flexibility and the ability to earn income on their own schedule. The company’s app also facilitates delivery services through Uber Eats and a referral program for existing drivers. However, the recent incidents highlight potential risks associated with app-based transportation work.

As of today, Thursday, February 5, 2026, the search for Miqueias Maciel Silva continues. His family remains hopeful for his safe return and is actively cooperating with law enforcement.