São Paulo Eviction Turns Violent: Residents of Favela do Moinho Allege Police Brutality

São Paulo Eviction Sparks Violence: Residents of Favela do Moinho Denounce Police Brutality On May 14, 2025, a police eviction operation in the Favela do Moinho in central São Paulo resulted in allegations of excessive force and violence against residents. 181 families have already been removed from their homes, but the operation continues amidst reports of ongoing tension and fear. One young resident, speaking to SBT News, described being hit in the head with a rubber bullet while returning home from lunch. "It was a rubber bullet," he stated, "and pepper spray in the face. Children were fainting, women were fainting, elderly people were fainting. This continues." He further alleged that there was no offer of alternative housing, only police repression. The reporter noted the presence of police in riot gear at the scene. The incident highlights the ongoing struggle for housing and justice in São Paulo's favelas. The continued evictions and alleged police brutality raise serious concerns about human rights and the well-being of vulnerable communities. The young man's testimony, along with the video footage, provides compelling evidence of the situation's severity. Further investigation is needed to fully understand the circumstances of the eviction and the actions of the police. The lack of alternative housing solutions adds another layer of complexity to this urgent humanitarian situation.