In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a hopeful political candidate and her sister were brutally murdered in Brazil, allegedly due to a gang-related dispute.
The tragedy unfolded in the city of Porto Esperidião, located in the west-central state of Mato Grosso.
Kidnapping and Torture
Rayane Alves, a 25-year-old city council candidate, and her 28-year-old sister, Rithiele Alves, were abducted along with two men, including their brother, after attending a festival early Saturday morning.
The group was forcibly taken to a local party at a residence where they faced unimaginable violence.
According to the Mato Grosso Civil Police, the sisters were not only stabbed but also had their fingers and hair severed.
Escape and Discovery
In the midst of the horror, one of the men managed to flee and inform the authorities.
When the police arrived at the residence, they discovered Rayane and Rithiele dead in one of the rooms.
The other man was found in a separate room, severely injured with his finger and ear cut off and a stab wound to his neck.
Gang-Ordered Violence
Police Chief Hugo Rafael revealed to Brazilian news outlet G1 that the murders were orchestrated by a gang member serving time in prison.
The inmate reportedly ordered the killings after seeing a photo of the victims making a gang sign for a rival group, Primeiro Comando da Capital, which had been posted online but was later removed.
The gang member watched the torture through a video call for three hours, directing the violence from his cell.
Investigation and Arrests
Rafael detailed that the suspects were all in constant communication with the imprisoned gang member during the ordeal.
Following the investigation, authorities have detained ten individuals, including four minors.
The suspects face multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, and corruption of minors.
The minors are being charged with similar offenses and have been released.
Community Reaction
Rayane Alves, who was not only a circus operator but also a first-time candidate for public office, and her sister are mourned by the community.
Porto Esperidião Mayor Herculis Albertini expressed profound grief, stating, “It is with immense sadness and deep regret that we announce the passing of our dear friend and candidate for councilwoman Rayane, and her sister Ritiely.
This tragic loss leaves an incalculable pain for all of us.”
As the investigation continues, the community and authorities are left grappling with the aftermath of this senseless violence.