Rio Police Raid: Over 130 Killed in Controversial Operation
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.
John Q. Hosedrinker