Brazil: Police disperse protesters in Rio de Janeiro September 3 /update 1

Event

Security forces dispersed a spontaneous protest in front of the National Museum in Rio de Janeiro on Monday, September 3, after a fire destroyed the museum on Sunday, September 2. Police used pepper spray and tear gas to break up the crowd of around 500 people in front of the gates of the burned museum. Protesters accused the government of corruption and neglect and attempted to enter the complex to see the damage. Further protests are possible in the coming days.

Context

A massive fire of unknown causes burned down the interior of the National Museum around 19:00 (local time) on September 2. Officials suggest the damage is catastrophic and 20 million historical and archeological archives were likely destroyed. No casualties were reported.

Advice

Individuals in Rio de Janeiro are advised to avoid the area of the fire and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.