A Brazilian politician made headlines after a video surfaced of him slapping a computer in a hospital while arguing with staff over the alleged denial of care to his friend. Former congressman Raad Massouh was caught on camera confronting workers at Santa Helena Hospital in Asa Norte, demanding answers after they reportedly asked his friend, Antônio Melo, to make a hefty deposit for emergency care.
In the video, Massouh expressed frustration over the situation, questioning the feasibility of making such a large payment in the middle of the night. He then proceeded to knock the screen off the counter before checking on Melo, who was resting in a hospital bed.
According to reports, Melo’s family contacted Massouh for help after he was denied care due to an unpaid bill. After the incident, Melo was eventually placed in the ICU and later transferred to a private hospital for further treatment.
Santa Helena Hospital clarified that they did not deny Melo care and provided immediate treatment upon his arrival. The hospital stated that the estimated bill was only presented after the necessary care and treatment had been administered.
Massouh, who holds dual citizenship in Syria and Brazil, previously served in the Federal District legislative assembly from 2010 to 2013 but was removed from office following allegations of embezzlement.