On Tuesday, October 28th, the Brazilian police launched a massive operation against the gang known as the “Comando Vermelho” or Red Command in Rio de Janeiro, resulting in at least 64 deaths, including 4 police officers killed in action, and the arrest of 81 individuals.
Next week, Rio will host the C40 Global Mayors Summit on Climate Change and the Earthshot Prize event with Prince William.
These events serve as a prelude to COP30, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, scheduled to take place from November 10th to 21st in Belem, northern Brazil.
According to Reuters, the Rio de Janeiro state government stated that Tuesday’s operation was the largest in history targeting the “Comando Vermelho” gang.
Earlier on Tuesday, gunfire echoed through the favela areas, accompanied by smoke as gang members set vehicles on fire to hinder the advancement of police armored vehicles.
Rio’s favelas are scattered throughout the hilly coastal terrain of the city, serving as settlements for the impoverished population.
Police footage showed gang suspects using drones equipped with grenades to attack the police, while some armed gang members fled into nearby forested areas.
Rio Governor Claudio Castro revealed that a total of 2,500 officers were deployed for this operation, with plans to execute 250 arrest and search warrants, spanning the favela complexes of Alemao and Penha near the city’s international airport.
He stated on social media that the operation aimed to combat drug trafficking and its associated money laundering activities, emphasizing their strong stance against drug terrorism.
Rio’s crackdown on the “Comando Vermelho” highlights the ongoing challenges faced in combating organized crime in the region, as authorities strive to maintain law and order while ensuring the safety of residents.