The head of Rio Grande do Sul’s Military Brigade, Cláudio Feoli, acknowledged a significant mistake in a police operation that led to the death of farmer Marcos Nörnberg, aged 48, in Pelotas. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, and all 18 officers involved have been suspended. Both the Military Brigade and the Civil Police have launched investigations to determine accountability, with the weapons used in the operation being confiscated.
The operation was initiated based on information from two arrested members of a criminal group, who were apprehended in Paraná. These individuals provided details that misled the police, resulting in the raid on Nörnberg’s property. The operation involved a substantial number of officers and vehicles, which was later described as unusual by Civil Police delegate César Nogueira.
During an event discussing crime statistics, Feoli described the operation as a “great mistake,” emphasizing that this was not a preliminary judgment but a clear observation. Meanwhile, the widow of the victim, Raquel Nörnberg, expressed her disbelief at the police’s aggressive approach, initially mistaking them for criminals due to their conduct and language.
The tragic event unfolded when the couple noticed unusual activity outside their home. Marcos Nörnberg went to investigate and was subsequently shot. The Civil Police confirmed the operation was part of a search for a local gang. The governor of Rio Grande do Sul, Eduardo Leite, called for a thorough investigation, acknowledging that while the police force is well-trained, it is not infallible.
The Military Brigade explained that the operation was a response to a recent robbery where a caretaker was held hostage, and vehicles were stolen. During the raid, officers encountered a man with a firearm who allegedly fired at them, leading to the fatal shooting. The scene was secured for forensic examination, and a semi-automatic carbine and cash were found with the deceased.
