Brazil minister: Marielle Franco case difficult, officials involved
Brazil’s Public Security Minister Raul Jungmann said Wednesday (Aug. 8) that the case surrounding the killing of Rio de Janeiro city councilor Marielle Franco, of the Socialism and Freedom Party (PSOL), and her driver Anderson Pedro Gomes is “complex, […] as government officials are involved.”
Nearly five months after the murder, and amid ongoing probes, Jungmann urged patience. Despite the difficulties, he expressed confidence that the perpetrators will be held able.
“I’m confident that both those who did it and those who ordered it done will be found. What makes this case difficult is the need for confirmation. We must produce evidence to take the ones able to jail,” he said.
Jungmann went on to say that he cannot speed up the probes. “[Investigators] must produce evidence, and the evidence must be substantial and brought under scrutiny by the prosecution, lawyers, and the judge himself.”
City councilor and human rights activist Franco and her driver Gomes were gunned down inside their car in downtown Rio on the night of March 14.
Two days ago, architect Mônica Benício, Franco’s widow, also mentioned the need for time in order for the case not to be given “just any solution.” Benício described the crime as “political and power-related.”
Benício asked the United Nations for protection and said she fears for her own life after receiving threats both online and in person.
