Heavy Clashes Erupt Between Sao Paulo Police and Transport Fare Protesters

A protest against an increase in Sao Paulo’s public transportation fares turned violent, as some protesters hurled stones and fireworks at the city’s police and saw authorities deploy tear gas and pepper spray on Friday, January 16, according to local reports citing military police.

Organizers said at least 10,000 protesters took part in the demonstration outside Sao Paulo’s city hall until tension arose at around 18:00 local time. Police pegged the number in attendance at 3,000.

Demonstrators were protesting against bus fares that rose from 3 reais to 3.50 reais ($1.15 to $1.34) last week, and called for the increase to be lowered or scrapped.

This footage shows fireworks and tear gas thrown as demonstrators flee. Credit: YouTube/PortaldoPSTU