Protests in Rio de Janeiro grow into riots, 7 people detained

Protests actions in Rio de Janeiro that gathered about 600 people have grown into rioting on Thursday. The demonstration began on Wednesday in the prestigious district of Leblon near the house, where the governor of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Sergio Cabral, lives. The demonstration with demands to stop price rises, curb rampant corruption, improve quality of public health and education services was initially peaceful. However, closer to midnight, local time (07:00 MSK) the crowd started throwing stones in the windows of shops and bank branches. The police had to use tear gas. According to media reports, four police officers were injured in the clashes, seven rioters were detained. An emergency meeting of the government of the state with the participation of representatives of City Hall and the police leadership will be held on Thursday to discuss the situation. On July 22, Pope Francis will arrive in Rio de Janeiro to attend the Catholic World Youth Days. According to local media reports, the Brazilian government will spend on the congress from 320 million to 350 million Brazil Reals (over 140 million US dollars). Brazilians are actively discussing in social networks the idea of ··holding rallies next week in protest against government spending linked with the activities of the Catholic Church.