Amarildo Souza declared dead in absentia

Bricklayer Amarildo de Souza, missing since July 14 after being held for questioning at a Pacifying Police Unit (UPP) in the Rocinha slums in Rio, has been declared dead in absentia (presumably dead in the absence of evidence). His body was never found.

The decision emanated from the State Court of Rio de Janeiro, who upheld an appeal from Amarildo's wife and children, and was published to the court website on Tuesday (Feb. 4).

Presumption of death is outlined in Brazilian law as a safeguard to secure the rights of the victim's family to inheritance, pension, life insurance, indemnities, and other legal proceedings including seeking compensation from the State.

Twenty-five police officers have been indicted on murder charges for Amarildo's disappearance – including the UPP commander at the time, Major Édson Santos – and may face trial. A preliminary hearing will be held on February 20.

Amarildo's disappearance sparked widespread protest against police brutality in the streets of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, and gained nationwide and international media attention as people demanded, “Where's Amarildo?” (“Cadê o Amarildo?”).

Translated by Mayra Borges