Brazilian Trans Congresswoman Duda Salabert Reports Attempted Homicide

Brazilian transgender congresswoman Duda Salabert reported that she was the victim of an attempted homicide on September 3, 2026, while investigating suspected illegal mining near Belo Horizonte.

According to a report by Watermark Out News , Salabert and her assistant, environmental engineer Felipe Gomes, went to the border between the municipalities of Belo Horizonte and Nova Lima after receiving a complaint about possible mineral theft. The deputy stated that upon arrival, they were approached and attacked by three men. In a video statement, she noted that one of the attackers repeatedly said, “We got you,” leading her to believe the perpetrators knew who she was.

“I was convinced they were going to kill me. They were very cold, and they kept saying ‘we’ve got you’ and ‘we’ll settle this inside,’” Salabert said.

Preliminary reports indicate the men attempted to take Salabert and Gomes deeper into the mining area. However, they managed to escape: Gomes was physically assaulted, while Salabert ran down a slope toward the highway. When she reached the roadside and flagged down a passing vehicle, the attackers fled.

The victims later contacted the police and went to a hospital. The deputy suffered injuries, including a dislocated shoulder and abrasions. Initially, the military police registered the incident as bodily injury. Salabert and Gomes are expected to give official statements to authorities as the investigation continues.

Salabert believes the attack is linked to her work investigating and exposing illegal mining in the region. She is currently seeking access to surveillance footage that could help identify the perpetrators.

Duda Salabert is a federal deputy representing the state of Minas Gerais and plans to run for reelection in the 2026 elections.