Brazil protests: Tens of thousands march against assassination of politician and rights activist

Tens of thousands of protestors have taken to the streets of Rio de Janeiro following the death of a politician that had challenged police brutality.

Rallies were also held in cities across Brazil as people mourned the death of the Marielle Franco.

The 38-year-old was shot dead along with her driver on Wednesday. Her press officer was in the back seat of the car at the time and was injured during the attack.

Dramatic pictures show the sheer size of the crowds as her coffin entered the state assembly building.

People can be seen in tears upon seeing her coffin.

It's thought that nine shots were fired into the vehicle by two men.

Ms Franco was known for her work in the favelas and for her work on speaking out against police violence.

Images from the rally in Rio show the streets flooded with protestors.

The crowd gathered outside Rio de Janeiro's council chamber and according to reports, could be heard chanting "not one step backwards".

A police official told AP that the 38-year-old appeared to be targeted by perpetrators who knew exactly where she would be sitting in a car with tinted windows.

Amnesty International have called on the Brazillian State to guarantee 'an immediate and rigorous investigation' for the assassination of the councilwoman.

Mariella was born and raised in the Complexo de Maré complex and was elected to the city council in the Party for Socialism and Liberation.

She had spoken out against police killings. According to the Guardian, 154 people were killed in Rio state as a result of police action in January this year.

Richard Nunes, Rio's head of public security said there would be a full investigation into the deaths.