Wave of Political Violence Rocks Rio de Janeiro with Attacks on PT Militant and Elderly Man

In June 2026, Rio de Janeiro has seen a disturbing surge in politically motivated violence, with two significant attacks recently reported in Copacabana. The Workers' Party (PT) has strongly condemned these violent episodes targeting its members and supporters, calling for thorough investigations and accountability.

One of the most severe attacks involved Mauro Figueiredo da Costa, a PT militant assaulted by three individuals on a Friday night as he returned home in Copacabana. During the assault, the attackers shouted venomous political insults, including "petista de merda" and "É Bolsonaro, é Bolsonaro!", threatened Mauro's life, and ripped a rosary from his hands. Mauro was carrying a sticker supporting Deputy Benedita da Silva (PT-RJ) at the time. The PT reiterated its commitment to democracy, dialogue, and tolerance while demanding justice for Mauro and decrying the normalization of such violence.

In a separate incident, an elderly man was also assaulted in Copacabana, with the violence only stopping when an unknown bystander intervened. Notably, the doorman of the victim’s building witnessed the attack but did not assist despite pleas from the victim. The police investigation has been transferred to the 12th Police Station in Copacabana, and security camera footage is being reviewed. The victim underwent a medical examination at the Instituto Médico-Legal.

The PT Chamber of Deputies expressed solidarity with the elderly victim, emphasizing that attacks rooted in political beliefs threaten the fabric of democracy. Deputy Benedita da Silva characterized the assault as an example of political hatred and cowardice, underscoring the urgent need for a culture of respect and dialogue.

These attacks highlight escalating tensions amid Rio's political climate, drawing criticism from political leaders and parties. Both victims’ cases are under active police investigation as authorities seek to address the violence and uphold citizens’ rights to political expression without fear.

The PT’s statement warns against the dangers of tolerating radical intolerance, likening current trends to the dark histories of fascism and authoritarianism. They envision a just and equitable Brazil, free from fear and political violence, and call for sustained struggle toward this goal.