While the capital of Rio Grande do Sul and nearby cities are still suffering from floods, Arroio do Meio, in the Taquari Valley, is suffering from civil disorder. Local authorities have reported looting of shops and markets, and even a homicide, as people try to get back on their feet.
According to information from Rádio Gaúcha Zero Hora, a homicide was recorded in the center of the city, on Rua Coberta, a few meters away from where the Civil Defense was disembarking a boat with rescued people.
According to reports, the victim was hit with skewer blows to the neck and then stab wounds. Residents called the situation absurd.
Witnesses said the body was thrown into the water but was removed by other people. In another neighborhood, a man was shot and is hospitalized in Lajeado after being transferred by helicopter.
Initial information says that the murder took place after the population looted commercial establishments. According to witnesses, goods and even motorcycles were stolen.
“They laughed, they said ‘what a strong bike’. They popped champagne and bathed. This [man] who died used to laugh before. Where the water didn’t reach, people looted,” said driver Darlei Berté, who was cleaning up the store.
According to Zero Hora, access to the municipality of Arroio do Meio is still difficult. Food is arriving by helicopter. In a parish hall in front of the city hall, lunch boxes are being made and distributed to residents.