The Public Prosecutor's Office of Acre (MP-AC) has announced an investigation into a tribute made to players of the football team Vasco-AC, who are currently detained on allegations of gang rape in Rio Branco. During a recent game in the Copa do Brasil, the team wore shirts with the names of three of the four suspects, leading to public outcry and concern over the message sent by such an act. The team ultimately lost the match to Velo Clube-SP after a penalty shootout.

The players involved are Erick Luiz Serpa Santos Oliveira, Matheus Silva, Brian Peixoto Henrique Iliziario, and Alex Pires Júnior, who are accused of sexually assaulting two women inside the club's lodging facilities early on Friday, September 13. The first suspect was apprehended on Saturday, September 14, while the remaining three were subjected to temporary arrest on Tuesday, September 17. All of the players have denied the allegations against them, which has added to the complexity of the case.

This investigation not only pertains to the tribute made during the football match but will also include a broader inquiry by the MP-AC regarding the circumstances surrounding the allegations. This high-profile case raises significant issues about accountability in sports, the treatment of women in such environments, and the responsibilities of sports teams and their supporters in cases of alleged violence against women.