At least 64 people, including four police officers, have been killed in a major law enforcement operation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Governor Claudio Castro said the large-scale raid aimed to dismantle organized crime and drug trafficking networks.
Castro confirmed that 60 suspects were “neutralized”, 81 arrested, and several weapons seized. He vowed to continue efforts for a “crime-free Rio and Brazil,” despite growing criticism over police brutality.
The deadly operation — called Operation Containment — targeted the Comando Vermelho (Red Command) gang, one of Rio’s most powerful drug cartels. Officials said 2,500 officers, supported by armoured vehicles and helicopters, took part in the raid across the Alemão and Penha favela complexes.
Gunfire erupted during the operation, killing dozens and wounding several others. Witnesses said stray bullets hit bystanders as roads were closed and clashes intensified. Human rights groups have condemned the operation, calling for an investigation into excessive force.
Brazil has long struggled with gang violence. In 2024 alone, nearly 700 people have died in police raids across Rio — about two deaths a day. Critics argue such operations rarely bring lasting security.
The timing of the raid has also raised questions. It comes days before the C40 World Mayors Summit in Rio and weeks ahead of the UN COP30 Climate Summit in Belem. With elections in 2026, crime and public safety are expected to dominate Brazil’s political agenda.
