Violent crime and investigations in Maceió

Recent violent incidents in Maceió have prompted investigations into targeted killings and organized crime.

In one case, a Civil Police operation resulted in the death of one suspect and the arrest of another following the murder of lawyer Ana Walesca do Nascimento Gomes. The victim was shot multiple times in the head and chest while walking in the Benedito Bentes neighborhood. The Brazilian Bar Association (OAB-AL) has called for a rigorous investigation into the homicide.

Separately, authorities are investigating the death of 19-year-old Norma Ramoniky dos Santos Souza, who was found shot to death in her apartment in the Santa Amélia neighborhood. Investigators from the Homicide and Person Protection Police Department (DHPP) believe the victim had ties to organized crime, suggesting she acted as a ‘guarda-armas’ (arms keeper) who used her residence to store firearms and host meetings for criminal groups.

Forensics recovered an intact 9mm caliber round from the apartment at Conjunto Medeiros Neto. Detectives noted that the victim had recently moved from the Cleto Marques Luz area following disputes with individuals linked to criminal activities. While police have not yet arrested a suspect, they are focusing on the victim’s potential involvement with local factions and have ruled out domestic violence or gender-based motives at this stage.