SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazilian police said Friday they will reopen dozens of criminal cases linked to a self-confessed serial killer who was arrested while allegedly attempting to escape disguised as a woman and carrying a child.

Jorlan Lopes da Silva, 33, is suspected of killing at least 16 people in the region of Mulungu, in the northeastern state of Paraiba. Police arrested him Sunday following a two-day search.

Paraiba police spokeswoman Gerlane Pereira told The Associated Press that da Silva confessed to 11 additional killings. Authorities are now expected to review dozens of cases in the region as they investigate his alleged links to other deaths.

Da Silva was captured wearing a black dress with white stripes, a wig and painted nails. Police also said he was carrying a child who was not related to him.

Two other suspects allegedly connected to the same criminal organization were also arrested. Police said da Silva is a member of a criminal gang that has been blamed for killing dozens of people in the region.

Authorities said da Silva told investigators after his arrest that he committed his first killing when he was 13 years old. His alleged crimes are believed to be connected to the Mulungu area, where police are now reopening cases as they examine whether additional killings can be linked to him or the criminal organization.

Mulungu is located about 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles) north of Rio de Janeiro.

SOURCE: The Associated Press (AP), updated September 24, 2026.