Brazilian police arrest suspected masterminds behind the killing of councilwoman-turned-icon
Brazil’s federal police have arrested two men for allegedly ordering the killing of popular Rio de Janeiro councilwoman Marielle Franco in 2018
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Brazil’s federal police arrested two men Sunday for allegedly ordering the killing of a popular Rio de Janeiro councilwoman in 2018, a long-awaited step after years of society clamoring for justice.
The assassination of Marielle Franco, a 38-year-old city councilwoman, in a drive-by shooting shook Brazil profoundly and reverberated around the world. She stood out as one of the only Black women on the council and was also bisexual. Her assertiveness and mere presence ruffled some people, but she remained unbowed.
Police investigators said federal legislator Chiquinho Brazão and his brother Domingos Brazão, a member of Rio state’s accounts watchdog, were detained on suspicion of ordering the killing of Franco. Both are allegedly connected to criminal groups, known as militias, which illegally charge residents for various services, including protection.
Ubiratan Guedes, the lawyer representing Domingos Brazão, denied the accusations against his client. “He did not know Marielle, had no connection with Marielle,” he told reporters.
