Brazil's police tactics under fire

Police tactics drew strong criticism

By Stephen Cviic in Porto Seguro

Brazilian federal prosecutors are to investigate the tactics used by police on Saturday during the break up of a demonstration by indigenous Indians near the resort of Porto Seguro.

The protest was tied to coincide with the official commemorations of the 500th anniversary of Portuguese colonisation.

Indigenous people said there was nothing to celebrate

Riot police stopped the march in its tracks by firing tear gas and stun grenades, drawing strong criticism from many politicians.

No one knows how many people were injured in the clashes on the road to Porto Seguro. But the symbolism of Saturday's events was strong.

Widespread criticism

On Sunday, most of Brazil's leading newspapers carried front page pictures of indigenous Indians standing in the pouring rain as riot police advanced on them, firing tear gas canisters.

Criticism has come from many quarters, most notably from the head of the government's own Indian affairs agency, Carlos Frederico Mares.

Mr Mares, who took part in the march, has announced his resignation, saying he cannot participate in a government which treats Indians in this way.

Left-wing politicians have also voiced their condemnation. One said the police action showed that the celebrations of Brazil's 500th birthday were only for a few, while the majority were excluded.

No regrets

But the officials in charge have voiced no regrets. The head of military intelligence said the security forces had acted very well in the circumstances.

The governor of Bahia state, Caesar Borges, who runs the local police, pointed out that he had allowed other popular demonstrations in the week before the anniversary.

To have allowed one on the day, he said, would have been a sign of disrespect to the hundreds of guests invited to the official celebrations.

Brazil's federal prosecutors are well known for their persistence and independence. But they will have to work hard to press any charges against the senior officials who, it seems, took the crucial decisions on Saturday.