A police operation in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro leaves at least 60 dead. Image: AJ English shared via X @AJEnglish.
(The Post News)– A massive police operation targeting the powerful Comando Vermelho (Red Command) drug cartel in Rio de Janeiro’s German Complex (Complexo do Alemão) and Penha favelas has resulted in at least 60 fatalities, including four police officers on Tuesday, October 28.
The operation, named ‘Operation Containment,’ involved a significant deployment of approximately 2,500 police officers, utilizing armored vehicles and air support. According to reliable sources, it was conducted to curb the gang’s territorial expansion and execute hundreds of outstanding arrest warrants against criminal leaders, making it one of the most lethal security actions in the state’s documented history.
Operation Details and Seizures
The casualty count of at least 60 confirmed fatalities included four members of the security forces. Police identified the majority of the deceased as suspected gang members, alleging that they aggressively initiated fire on police teams upon entry into the low-income, densely populated communities.
State officials confirmed the successful execution of warrants, noting that the action was essential to restore public order. Furthermore, the operation led to the arrest of over 50 suspects and the seizure of several weapons, including multiple assault rifles, pistols, and specialized ammunition.
Additionally, large quantities of illicit drugs were confiscated, confirming the high-level logistical presence of the cartel within the targeted slum complexes. Governor Claudio Castro robustly defended the action, calling it a decisive blow against criminal infrastructure and the Red Command’s push for new territory.
The primary target, Comando Vermelho (Red Command), is one of Brazil’s largest and most established drug trafficking organizations.
The action was part of an unprecedented effort to push back against the gang’s attempts to solidify control and claim new territory within the metropolitan area.
Police Action Criticized
Meanwhile, the UN Human Rights has expressed concern over the war between authorities and drug cartels, stating that, “This deadly operation furthers the trend of extreme lethal consequences of police operations in Brazil’s marginalized communities.”
The organization further reminded authorities of their “obligation under international human rights law,” urging prompt and effective investigations.
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