BRASILIA, March 14 (Xinhua) -- At least 14 cities in Brazil's northeastern Rio Grande do Norte State suffered shooting or arson attacks early Tuesday morning that left one person dead, local authorities said.
An organized crime ring known as the Crime Syndicate, which operates widely in the state, were allegedly behind the attacks, according to police reports.
The fatal victim died in a clash with security forces, the police said, adding that the attacks occurred in the state capital Natal, and more than 10 other cities in the state.
The state's security forces jointly responded to the attacks on a court of law, two military police stations, a city hall and a bank.
Police also reported damage to a motorcycle shop, and vehicles parked on the street and in public lots.
The Palace of Justice in Parnamirim, a city next to the state capital Natal, came under fire, as did two military police stations in the west of the city. The criminal group also allegedly shot at public buildings and tried to set them on fire. ■
