RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – In a dramatic and deadly police operation, over 2,000 armed officers stormed impoverished neighborhoods in northern Rio de Janeiro, resulting in at least 132 fatalities, including four police officers. Authorities describe the operation as Brazil’s most lethal in recent history, targeting the notorious Red Command gang.
Governor Claudio Castro defended the crackdown, stating it marked the beginning of a new era in the fight against narcoterrorism. However, the operation has sparked widespread controversy. Among the casualties was the son of a local resident, Juanito, who lamented the loss and criticized the operation as a massacre, despite some public approval.
Officials reported the seizure of weapons and drugs, along with the arrest of approximately 80 alleged gang members. The operation focused on dismantling the Red Command, one of Brazil’s oldest and most influential criminal organizations, which has long plagued the nation.
The U.S. State Department continues to advise American travelers to exercise increased caution in Brazil due to ongoing crime and kidnapping threats. Meanwhile, Brazilian President Lula expressed shock over the high death toll, according to Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski.
Critics argue that such aggressive tactics echo policies seen in other nations, suggesting a dangerous precedent of “shoot first, ask questions later.” Brazil’s history of police violence, with thousands killed annually, adds to the concern.
The United Nations’ Human Rights Office condemned the operation, expressing horror over the extreme consequences of police actions in marginalized communities. Their statement highlights a troubling trend of lethal enforcement in Brazil.
The city is poised to host several events linked to the UN’s upcoming climate summit, COP31. Despite the recent violence, preparations continue, with involvement from organizations like Bloomberg Philanthropies.