A police raid on a notorious gang in Rio de Janeiro resulted in a death toll of 119, including four policemen, according to Brazilian authorities. The operation, involving 2,500 police and soldiers, led to clashes in two low-income neighborhoods. The number of suspected gang members arrested rose to 113 from the initially reported 81.
The raid targeted the Red Command gang in the favelas of Complexo de Alemao and Penha with the use of helicopters and armored vehicles. The timing of the operation coincided with Rio preparing to host the C40 global summit of mayors addressing climate change.
Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the operation, calling for thorough investigations into the deaths. The United Nations’ human rights body expressed horror at the deadly police action and urged authorities to uphold international human rights laws.
Social media footage showed fire and smoke in the affected favelas, with reports of suspected gang members blocking roads in response. The operation followed a year-long investigation into the criminal group and has sparked debates on public safety policies and the government’s role in combating crime.
