The Secretary of Public Security of São Paulo, Osvaldo Nico Gonçalves, has commented on a controversial incident where military police were filmed violently detaining a suspect during a carnival event in Ibirapuera. The suspect, identified as an army cadet, was accused of sexually harassing women during the festivities. Gonçalves asserted that the police used 'moderate force' to control the situation, as the suspect was reportedly aggressive and did not present any identification when confronted by the officers.

Footage from the incident showed police officers surrounding the suspect and using excessive force, including a chokehold that caused him to lose consciousness. While Gonçalves's statement downplayed the nature of the police's response, public scrutiny has arisen regarding the appropriateness of their actions and the principle of proportionality in policing. Critics have questioned whether the level of force applied was justifiable, especially considering the suspect was unarmed and subdued.

The suspect was apprehended on-site and taken to the 8th Battalion of the Army Police, where he remains in custody. This incident raises critical discussions around police practices and conduct during public events, particularly in contexts involving potential acts of sexual violence. It also highlights the ongoing concerns about police accountability and the treatment of suspects, which are pertinent issues in Brazil's law enforcement discourse.