Police Wreath for Slain Fugitive Sparks Outrage in Paraguay

A wreath sent from the National Police Command to the wake of Richard Cáceres, an alleged "polibandi" (police-gang member) who was killed in a shootout with police, has ignited public anger in Paraguay. Cáceres, 37, was reportedly the leader of a criminal group that recently robbed a supermarket in Alberdi.

He was killed last Friday by police at a checkpoint when he and his accomplices attempted to evade capture in an ambulance. Cáceres had a prior record, including arrests for several robberies, and had previously been granted alternative measures to prison by a court in Pilar despite facing charges for a 2025 incident where he and his gang took merchants hostage.

The controversy arose when a floral wreath bearing the inscription "Comandancia de la Policía Nacional" (National Police Command) was seen at Cáceres's wake. This display led to widespread rejection among residents of Alberdi and fueled a backlash on social media.

In response to the public outcry, the National Police Command issued a statement clarifying that the wreath was sent by the private company responsible for the life insurance of police officers, as stipulated by their contract. According to authorities, Cáceres's family requested the funeral service through this insurance, which also covered a coffin. The police added that since Cáceres had not been convicted, his life insurance remained active and was automatically triggered upon his family's request.