Manaus police arrest woman for syringe attacks on pedestrians

Police in Manaus, Brazil, have arrested a woman suspected of attacking pedestrians with used syringes in the city's central district. The incidents caused widespread panic in commercial areas, including Matinha and Avenida Constantino Nery.

One victim, a 17-year-old girl, was struck in the back while waiting at a traffic light. Her mother reported that the teenager's sweatshirt helped mitigate the impact of the injury. Another victim, a child, was rushed to the Hospital de Medicina Tropical following an attack. Witnesses recorded the incidents, and bystanders eventually intervened to restrain the woman before the Military Police arrived.

The suspect, who is reportedly homeless and may suffer from mental health issues, denied the allegations and claimed she was only carrying personal items. Police noted she is a repeat offender in the area and has previously provided false identification. She has been taken into custody at the 1st Integrated Police District (DIP) as authorities investigate the origin of the used medical materials.