Costa Rica, MS: Man arrested for suspected feminicide of partner

In Costa Rica, Mato Grosso do Sul, 54-year-old Fátima Alves de Matos was found dead with signs of physical violence. Her partner, Rubens Alves Justino, was arrested on suspicion of feminicide. Witnesses reported an intense argument between the couple the previous night, and the victim was found lifeless on a sofa. Notably, a previous investigation into domestic violence against Justino's ex-wife had been archived just four days prior due to a lack of evidence.

This incident marks the 22nd recorded feminicide in Mato Grosso do Sul in 2026. Data from the Observatório Caliandra highlights a broader crisis in the region, noting that between 2020 and 2026, feminicides in Mato Grosso have left 517 people orphaned. Of these, 190 were children and adolescents under 17. Experts emphasize the need for better public policies to support these families and address the social invisibility of those affected by gender-based violence.