Brazilian woman Maressa Crísley Nunes dos Santos is currently hospitalized in serious condition in a Chilean hospital after being the victim of an attempted rape and assault by a robber posing as a delivery man in Santiago. The attack occurred on the 24th when the assailant broke into an apartment where Maressa and her friend were staying.
Maressa managed to take one of the attacker’s guns, but other men arrived on the scene, and the attacks intensified. The crime resulted in Maressa suffering several facial fractures and leaving her in critical condition. Her friend suffered minor injuries, but she is recovering well.
The Brazilian government has condemned all acts of violence against women and expressed solidarity with Maressa and her friend through its Minister of Women, Cida Gonçalves, who stated that incidents like this highlight the importance of continuing to fight against gender-based violence. The Itamaraty is closely monitoring the case, while the Brazilian Consulate General in Santiago remains in contact with Maressa and her family to provide support during this difficult time.
To cover Maressa’s medical expenses, surgery costs, and medications needed for recovery, her family started a fundraising campaign on Vakinha website with a goal of R$60,000. They have already raised around R$31,000 so far. The recent enactment of Chile’s Comprehensive Law to Combat Violence Against Women underscores how important it is to continue fighting against gender-based violence to prevent incidents like what happened to Maressa from happening again.
In conclusion, this incident serves as a stark reminder that gender-based violence still exists and needs our attention. We must continue working towards creating safe spaces for all individuals regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.
