A young Brazilian woman, Maressa Crísley Nunes dos Santos, is currently hospitalized in serious condition in a Chilean hospital after being the victim of an assault and attempted rape in Santiago. The incident occurred when a robber posing as a delivery man broke into the apartment where Maressa and a friend were staying.
The criminal called other men to the scene, and the attacks intensified after Maressa managed to take the gun from one of the assailants. The crime took place on the 24th, and Maressa’s friend only suffered minor injuries. The attackers fled the scene, taking valuables such as cell phones and jewelry.
Maressa suffered several facial fractures and is in serious condition. Her family has started a fundraising campaign on the Vakinha website to cover the expenses of her return to Brazil, future surgeries, and medications needed for her recovery. They have raised around R$31,000 so far, with a goal of reaching R$60,000.
The Minister of Women, Cida Gonçalves, and the Itamaraty are closely monitoring the case, and the Brazilian Consulate General in Santiago is in contact with Maressa and her family. The minister expressed solidarity with Maressa and her friend, condemning all acts of violence against women on behalf of the Brazilian government.
The incident underscores the importance of continuing to fight against gender-based violence, as demonstrated by the recent enactment of Chile’s Comprehensive Law to Combat Violence Against Women. This law aims to provide better protection and support for victims of gender violence, ensuring that incidents like what happened to Maressa are prevented and properly addressed.