Bruno Souza, a Brazilian star goalkeeper suspected of having his ex-girlfriend killed, was on Friday formally charged with her murder, officials said. The footballer, who played for Rio de Janeiro's Flamengo team, was also charged with kidnapping, hiding a body, forming a criminal gang and corrupting minors, police in the state of Minas Gerais told a media conference.
Even though the body of the alleged victim, 25-year-old Eliza Samudio, has not been found, police wrapping up an initial phase of their probe on Thursday determined that Souza masterminded her death. "Forensic police will prove that Eliza is dead," the officer in charge of the investigation, Edson Moreira, said. He added that inquiries were continuing to bolster evidence and attempt to find the body. Seven other people, including an ex-policeman suspected of carrying out the premeditated murder on Souza's orders, have also been charged. Souza's wife was among them.