Brazil probes deaths in Belem police 'revenge attacks'

Authorities in Brazil say they are investigating reports that off-duty policemen have killed nine people in the northern city of Belem in revenge attacks.

The incident happened hours after a policeman was shot dead by unknown gunmen outside his home.

Witnesses say men on motorbikes went on a six-hour killing spree, shooting nine people in several areas of Belem.

Six of the killings were carried out like executions.

Rumours of an alleged revenge attack spread quickly through social media causing panic among residents.

Many preferred to stay at home, having received messages saying several areas of the city would be cleaned up.

BBC