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Brazil's army takes over security in state racked by violence amid police strike

Xinhua, February 10, 2017 Adjust font size:

Brazil's armed forces on Wednesday took over security operations in the southeastern state of Espirito Santo, after a police strike sparked rampant violence.

Five days into the strike, the murder rate has spiked, with 90 homicides registered since Saturday, when officers renounced their duties to demand higher wages and better working conditions, news agency Globo reported on its website.

According to the Agencia Brasil news agency, the state government signed over control of security operations to the armed forces.

The crime wave and insecurity have brought the state to a virtual standstill, disrupting public transportation and businesses.

"Buses are not circulating in (the capital) Victoria. Schools and universities are closed, clinics and local governments will not be offering services. Some banks and shopping centers are also not operating," the agency said.

Police representatives met with lawmakers and government officials over their demands, but so far no agreement has been reached. Enditem