Santa Catarina, Brazil sees surge in hate‑motivated violence

In the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina, authorities report a rise in extremist activity linked to far‑right supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro. The region hosts the country's highest number of neo‑Nazi cells and organized crime groups that have threatened judges and politicians. These groups are accused of fostering a climate of intimidation and violence.

A separate incident on June 22 highlighted this trend when a 44‑year‑old vendor was brutally assaulted by six men on Praia das Palmeiras in Florianópolis. The attack, described as homophobic, involved repeated beatings, threats of death, and the theft of the victim’s house key and shoes. The victim received medical care and the case is being investigated by the Santa Catarina Civil Police, with most assailants believed to be minors. Both events underscore growing hate‑driven crimes in the state.