Rio de Janeiro – Brazilian authorities have made significant strides in the investigation into the assassination of Marielle Franco, a prominent leftist politician and human rights activist. Franco’s killing in downtown Rio de Janeiro in 2018 sparked a nationwide outcry, with many demanding answers to the question, “Who ordered Marielle’s killing?”
Six years after the tragic event, Brazilian federal police have arrested three well-known and politically connected Rio de Janeiro officials. Among those arrested are federal Rio congressman Chiquinho Brazão, Rio state auditor Domingos Brazão, and former city police chief Rivaldo Barbosa. The arrests shed light on the alleged connections between the city’s political elite and criminal militias that control a significant portion of Rio’s territory.
Although the men have not been formally charged, police suspect them of being the masterminds behind Franco’s assassination. The arrests have been met with both relief and anticipation, particularly by Franco’s sister, Anielle Franco, who has long awaited justice and closure in her sibling’s case.
Before her untimely death, Marielle Franco was viewed as Brazil’s rising political star. Hailing from the Rio de Janeiro favela of Complexo da Maré, she advocated for minority rights in a country historically led by conservative individuals of European descent. Franco’s activism against police violence and criminal militias irked those who benefited from their presence in the city.
The recent breakthrough in the case came after two former military police officers were arrested and accused of carrying out Franco’s murder. Ronnie Lessa, a feared militia leader, accepted a plea bargain and provided crucial information that led to the arrests of the three officials. Law enforcement officials have expressed concerns about potential leaks and the suspects fleeing the country, prompting a swift and decisive operation.
The arrests have reignited a national conversation in Brazil about corruption and impunity, with commentators and politicians taking to social media to express their reactions. The operation marks a significant step towards bringing justice to Marielle Franco and her family, who have long awaited closure in this tragic chapter of Brazilian history.