A military police officer was officially charged by the 2nd Public Prosecutor’s Office for Specialized Criminal Investigation of Rio de Janeiro for the murder of Severina da Silva Nunes, aged 63, which occurred on June 15, 2023 during an operation in the Community of Turano, North Zone of Rio .
Severina was killed and a pregnant neighbor was injured by shrapnel when they were both in a local bar. Prosecutor Alexandre Themístocles accused police officer Wesley Pereira de Lima Nascimento of acting in an unreasonable and disproportionate manner, shooting without any imminent threat.
What do you need to know:
- Victims: Severina da Silva Nunes, dead; Kecia da Silva, injured pregnant woman.
- Reported: Police Officer Wesley Pereira de Lima Nascimento.
- Incident Location: Community of Turano, North Zone of Rio.
Report Details
During the operation, Wesley Pereira de Lima Nascimento, assigned to the Turano Police Pacification Unit (UPP), is accused of shooting indiscriminately in the direction of the hill, initially from inside the vehicle and then on foot. Prosecutor Themístocles highlighted that the police officer knew of the presence of civilians in the area and there was no justification for using his rifle at that time.
Impact of Action and Precautionary Measures
The seriousness of the acts led the Public Prosecutor’s Office to request the suspension of Nascimento’s police duties as a precautionary measure, emphasizing the need to guarantee public safety and prevent new incidents. The complaint was sent to the IV Jury Court of the Capital, where the case will be judged.
Social Context and Reactions
The incident in the Community of Turano highlights the ongoing challenges faced in security operations in densely populated areas. Severina’s death and Kecia’s injury reignited debates about police tactics and their impact on local communities, drawing attention to the urgency of reviewing procedures to protect civilians.
