Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Copacabana, near the Conmebol “fan zone,” a tumultuous clash unfolded as passionate supporters of both Boca Juniors and Fluminense engaged in a heated altercation. To quell the escalating tensions, the police had no choice but to employ rubber bullets and a significant amount of pepper gas, creating a chaotic scene along the iconic beach.
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Violence and verbal assaults at Copacabana beach
The incident unfolded around 5 pm, leading to a surge of confusion and agitation near the shoreline. Witnesses revealed that a skirmish occurred at a kiosk near post 3, primarily ignited by fans disputing the bill and expressing racist sentiments toward Brazilians.
Another distressing episode unfolded when an Argentine Boca Juniors fan was apprehended. According to Rogério, a loyal Fluminense fan, the Argentine not only hurled insults but also resorted to cruelty by kicking Rogério’s dog. Furthermore, he attempted to physically assault Rogério and used derogatory terms like “Boludo” and “monkey.” The Argentine fan was subsequently escorted to the 12th Police Station on Rua Hilário de Gouveia, while Rogério and his wife chose to file a formal complaint against him.
Los hinchas de Fluminense vuelven a emboscar y a agredir a los hinchas de Boca, que se defendieron.
La policía comenzó a reprimir. pic.twitter.com/j7Hpi4LnHn— Martin Arevalo (@arevalo_martin) November 2, 2023
Arrests and police response
A Boca fan found themselves in handcuffs after being accused of hurling bottles at the police. Additionally, an Argentine supporter succumbed to the effects of pepper spray, requiring swift medical attention from an ambulance team.
Elsewhere on Copacabana beach, two Argentine supporters seized the opportunity to voice their frustrations. One of them loudly decried the police, insinuating that they were biased and “racist.” Another Argentine arrived later, echoing the same sentiments.
In response to the tumultuous events, the Argentine supporter exclaimed his disappointment with the entire Brazilian police force. He alleged that violence had been perpetrated against Argentines, particularly Boca fans present on Copacabana beach. The supporter claimed that the Brazilian police exhibited a preference for Fluminense fans and failed to provide protection for Boca supporters.
Comments on the incident by police officials
To provide an official statement regarding the events, ge contacted Press Office of the State Secretariat of Military Police who informed that military police officers from the Battalion of Special Rondas and Crowd Control (RECOM), in conjunction with agents from the 19th BPM (Copacabana) intervened in the disturbance between fans in Copacabana, in the South Zone of Rio.
According to the command of these units, the disturbance initially commenced in the Funfest area of Copacabana Beach, and the police were forced to intervene as tensions escalated. The authorities promptly encircled the area to regain control of the situation, ultimately resulting in the detention of two Argentine tourists and one Brazilian individual, who were then taken to the 12th DP (Police Station).
It’s worth noting that policing measures in the vicinity had been significantly reinforced, with the presence of police officers from the 19th BPM battalion, the Special Rounds and Crowd Control Battalion (RECOM), as well as the Shock Police Battalion. Aerial patrols were conducted to monitor the entire coastline, ensuring the safety of both residents and tourists.”
Samba Gold 2023: Open voting!
Voting for the Samba Gold Award 2023 is now open. Choose your favorite in the men’s, women’s and under-20 categories!
