Brazil: Witness in Marielle Franco assassination is killed

April 13, 2018
Issue 
Carlos Alexandre Pereira Maria.

The body of Carlos Alexandre Pereira Maria was found on April 8 in a bullet-riddled car in Curumau, east of Rio de Janeiro, local media reported.

Pereira, 37, had been cited to testify in court as part of the investigation of the March 14 assassination of councilwoman and socialist activist Marielle Franco and her driver Anderson Gomes. Franco was a strong opponent of the military take-over of Mare, a poor neighbourhood in Rio home to about 140,000 people.

Pereira was also a social leader who worked closely with his community, bringing their demands to the parliament. An investigation into Pereira’s killing has been opened. A witness allegedly said that one of the hitmen shouted: “This dude should have his mouth shut.”

[Abridged from .]

Like the article? Subscribe to 鶹ý now! You can also  us on Facebook and  on Twitter.

You need 鶹ý, and we need you!

鶹ý is funded by contributions from readers and supporters. Help us reach our funding target.

Make a One-off Donation or choose from one of our Monthly Donation options.

Become a supporter to get the digital edition for $5 per month or the print edition for $10 per month. One-time payment options are available.

You can also call 1800 634 206 to make a donation or to become a supporter. Thank you.