Brazil state asks for troops after dozens of arson attacks
RIO DE JANEIRO – A Brazilian state governor is asking the president to send troops to a region where dozens of arson attacks have erupted after officials blocked cellphone service at a prison.
Rio Grande do Norte’s Gov. Robinson Farias says 51 people have been arrested, mostly for throwing firebombs to start fires in public buildings or buses. Authorities have not reported any deaths or injuries.
Farias says the violence is in retaliation for authorities blocking cellphone service in a state penitentiary to prevent inmates from committing crimes by issuing orders while behind bars.
The governor said on Sunday that police need help to ensure safety in the wake of the attacks.
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