Rio Military Police dismiss 43 soldiers

The Military Police (PM) of Rio de Janeiro expelled 43 soldiers charged with graft—using one's public position to demand undue advantage—and of having extorted money from merchants, businessmen and vendors in the city's western districts. They had been targeted by Operation Compadre, launched in 2013.

The dismissal took place after the police found strong signs of criminal activities and serious disciplinary transgressions. According to the agency, they hindered overt policing by no longer serving the population and neglecting the combat against illicit transportation.

The Military Police announced in a note that the defense of each one of the accused is his own responsibility.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira