The death toll from a Rio de Janeiro police raid in the favelas of Alemão and Penha has risen to at least 132, according to the public defender’s office, though the official figure is still being determined. The raid, which was the deadliest in the city’s history, involved extensive gunfire and the use of drones by both police and alleged gang members of the Red Command. Authorities, including Brazil’s President and the United Nations Human Rights office, have expressed shock and concern over the high number of fatalities, which occurred in a region known for gang activity and drug-related violence. The operation, which involved the arrest of key gang members, took place amid the backdrop of the upcoming C40 World Mayors Summit and Earthshot Prize events in the city.
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In Rio de Janeiro, a massive police raid targeting the Red Command gang resulted in at least 64 fatalities, making it the city’s deadliest single-day operation. The raid, involving over 2,500 officers, focused on favelas near the airport, sparking intense gun battles and the alleged use of weaponized drones by the criminals. Authorities declared the city “at war” as they sought to arrest Red Command leaders, seizing numerous automatic rifles. The operation has drawn criticism from human rights activists and community leaders, who argue such actions exacerbate the cycle of violence and fail to address the root causes of the crime.
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President-elect Trump’s administration plans a large-scale immigration raid in Chicago commencing the day after his inauguration, involving 100-200 ICE officers and lasting a week, according to the Wall Street Journal. While a source denies a Chicago-specific focus, the incoming administration intends to significantly increase nationwide immigration enforcement. Incoming border czar Tom Homan has explicitly threatened legal action against Chicago officials obstructing the operation. This action reflects Trump’s campaign promise of initiating the largest domestic deportation effort in US history.
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First Grace UMC in New Orleans provided sanctuary to Jose, an asylum seeker facing deportation despite legal standing, for nearly a year. During this time, Jose contributed to the church community while his legal case progressed. Ultimately, ICE decided not to deport him, and he is now on the path to citizenship. The church’s actions highlight the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals in sacred spaces, contrasting with proposed policies that would allow immigration enforcement in such locations. This underscores a moral imperative to treat all individuals with compassion and dignity, regardless of immigration status.
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Moscow police conducted raids on at least three LGBTQ+ bars and nightclubs, arresting the director of an LGBTQ+-focused travel agency. These actions, reported by state media, coincided with the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s ban on the “international LGBT movement.” The raids cited “combating LGBT propaganda” as justification, with social media footage showing police apprehending patrons. Authorities also alleged illegal alcohol sales at one establishment.
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Following reports from the Telegram channel “Ostorozhno, Moskva,” Moscow police conducted raids within the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory’s dormitory, issuing military summonses to students. One student, Daniil, recounted a surprise early morning detention, where police lacked proper identification and escorted him and others to the enlistment office. After a seven-hour detainment, Daniil was released with a summons for the following Monday but was left without his passport. The incident highlights the abrupt and potentially coercive methods used to fulfill Russia’s military mobilization efforts.
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John Q. Hosedrinker