Brazilian Gang Leader Who Donned Teen Girl Disguise in Unsuccessful Prison Escape Attempt Found Dead in Cell

The Brazilian gang leader who unsuccessfully attempted to escape prison by donning a mask, wig and outfit meant to fool authorities into thinking he was his own teenage daughter has been found dead.

Clauvino “Shorty” da Silva’s body was found in his cell on Tuesday, three days after his elaborate escape was foiled, authorities told the BBC. 

It appeared da Silva hanged himself, officials said.

Guards stopped who appeared to be a young woman but was found to be da Silva, 42, as he attempted to walk out of Gericino prison in western Rio de Janeiro Saturday.

Da Silva’s 19-year-old daughter had entered the prison earlier that day to visit her father. The girl remained in the prison as da Silva attempted to leave. 

She and eight others are being investigated for their alleged involvement in the incident. 

Authorities recorded video as da Silva was ordered to remove his disguise, which included glasses, a dark wig, a silicone mask, pink T-shirt and a padded bra. The footage of da Silva’s unmasking was released to the media and received widespread coverage.

Da Silva was serving a sentence of 73 years and 10 months for drug trafficking. He was a leader in the Red Command, one of Brazil's most powerful crime syndicates, authorities said.

He had previously escaped that same prison in 2013 by tunneling through the sewers, but was later recaptured.

Officials transferred da Silva to Bangu 1 prison in Rio de Janeiro state after his most recent escape attempt, the BBC reported.

He had been reportedly held in solitary confinement since the transfer.

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