A controversial AI-generated comic depicting the tragic death of Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion Leandro Lo has sparked intense debate across social media, posted by BJJ Stars just as the police officer accused of killing him faces dismissal from the force and an upcoming murder trial.
The São Paulo Military Court of Justice unanimously voted to dismiss Lieutenant Henrique Otávio Oliveira Velozo from the Military Police force, following what the court described as “serious disciplinary infractions classified as dishonorable and incompatible with police-military function.” The decision comes nearly three years after the fatal shooting that shocked the martial arts world.
According to official court documents, “The seven military judges voted favorably for the loss of rank and position in the special process initiated at the General Command of the Military Police,” citing conduct that was “detrimental to the institution, the State, and fundamental human rights.”
The AI comic, shared by the influential BJJ Stars Instagram account, portrays the eight-time world champion as a hero who was “murdered in front of thousands by a ‘police officer.'” The post, captioned “Case Leandro Lo, the truth. Multi-champion and hero,” has generated hundreds of passionate responses from the jiu-jitsu community.
The incident occurred on August 7, 2022, during a musical event at Clube Sírio in São Paulo’s south zone. Investigations revealed that Velozo, who was off-duty and in civilian clothes, became involved in a confrontation with Lo. After being taken down by the champion during the initial altercation, the lieutenant allegedly left the scene, returned armed, and fired a fatal shot to Lo’s head. Witnesses reported that Velozo then kicked the unconscious champion twice before fleeing.
The community’s reaction to the comic has been overwhelmingly supportive of seeking justice for Lo, with many users posting messages like “#justiçaporleandrolo” (justice for Leandro Lo). One commenter wrote, “There is no ‘other version’ when someone died/lost their life. It’s not about versions, it’s about facts.”
However, the post has also drawn criticism from some who argue for a more nuanced view of the events. The polarized responses reflect the ongoing tensions surrounding the case, with supporters demanding maximum punishment while others question various aspects of the incident.
The officer’s criminal trial for murder is scheduled for August 5, nearly three years after the tragedy. Despite being held in preventive detention at Romão Gomes prison since shortly after the incident, Velozo continued receiving his police salary until this week’s dismissal, following a Supreme Court ruling that salary suspension could only occur after a final conviction.
The case has highlighted broader issues within Brazilian law enforcement and sparked discussions about police accountability. As one Instagram user noted, “It’s extremely concerning to see someone come to comment ‘need to see the other side,’ how can there be another side???? SHOOTING someone in the HEAD is unjustifiable.”
Yet it’s hard not to argue that an AI take on how a life of a human being endless might be tasteless.
The jiu-jitsu community continues to rally around Lo’s memory, viewing him not just as an exceptional athlete but as a symbol of the sport’s values. His death has become a rallying point for those demanding justice and police reform in Brazil.
