Shivangi Sinha
When Lindemberg Alves took Eloá Pimentel hostage in her apartment in Santo André, São Paulo, there were three other people present. Among them was Iago Vilera, one of the two boys caught in the ordeal. That night left a lasting mark on him and changed everything about his life and perspective. Netflix’s ‘Eloá the Hostage: Live on TV’ highlights the incident and shows how the traumatic events of those hours continue to shape the memories of everyone who was inside that apartment.
Iago Vilera Was the Second Person to be Released by Lindemberg Alves
On October 13, 2008, Iago Vilera had planned to work on his geography project with his friends, but never imagined what would unfold that day. He was spending time with his girlfriend, Nayara Rodrigues, and friends Eloá Pimentel and Victor Lopes. The group initially planned to meet at Victor’s house, but Eloa suggested her place instead, saying it would be quieter and they could use her printer and have food. Shortly after they settled in, Lindemberg Alves stormed in with a gun, assaulted them, and held everyone hostage. He even threatened Nayara at gunpoint.
After spending around ten hours in captivity, Victor was released by Alves as police pressure intensified. About two and a half hours later, just before midnight on October 13, 2008, Iago was also freed from the hostage situation. His release deeply worried the families, as it meant only the two girls remained trapped inside with Alves, leaving little hope of overpowering him. Though relieved to be free, Iago remained anxious for his friends’ safety and stayed outside the apartment, assisting the police and doing everything he could to help.
Iago Vilera has Not Remained Publicly Connected to the Case
Since his release, very little has been known about Iago Vilera’s life. Unlike Victor Lopes, who appeared in later interviews, Iago has chosen to remain out of the public eye. He was not called to testify during Lindemberg Alves’ trial, and it appears he has made a conscious effort to distance himself from the events of that night. Given the intense media scrutiny and national attention the case received, it is understandable that he preferred to lead a quiet, private life. Iago’s decision to stay away from the spotlight likely reflects his desire to heal and move forward from an incident that changed his life forever.
Read More: Nayara Rodrigues: Where is the Abduction Survivor Now?
