Brazil Arrests Alleged Masterminds in 2018 Killing of Marielle Franco

The long-sought arrests of two men believed to have ordered the assassination of the Rio councilwoman marks a pivotal moment in the quest for justice.

• Brazil’s federal police arrested two men suspected of orchestrating the 2018 assassination of Marielle Franco, a prominent councilwoman in Rio de Janeiro.
• The suspects, federal deputy Chiquinho Brazão and his brother Domingos Brazão, are linked to criminal militias and have denied involvement in the crime.
• Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski highlighted the complexity of the case, noting the suspects' broad interests and potential motives tied to political disputes.
• The arrests followed a plea bargain with the shooter, Ronnie Lessa, whose testimony contributed significantly to the breakthrough in the investigation.
• The case has drawn international attention, turning Franco, a vocal critic of police violence and advocate for marginalized communities, into a symbol of resistance.

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