At least 64 people were killed in a massive police raid targeting organized crime in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, officials told CNN Brasil. The deaths include four police officers.
Rio de Janeiro State Governor Cláudio Castro said the operation seized “a large quantity of drugs” and at least 42 rifles, calling it “the biggest operation in the history of Rio de Janeiro.”
The raid took place in the Alemão favela, with videos showing thick black smoke and photographs revealing burned cars used as barricades. Authorities said the operation aimed to curb the territorial expansion of the Comando Vermelho, Brazil’s oldest active criminal organization, which has grown into a transnational gang involved in drug trafficking and extortion.
The year-long operation involved more than 2,500 military and civilian police officers. At least 81 people were arrested. Officials also claimed gang members used drones to attack police in retaliation.
“This is the magnitude of the challenge we face,” Castro said, describing the threat as “narco-terrorism” rather than ordinary crime. He urged residents of affected neighborhoods to stay indoors.
The US State Department warned visitors to avoid northern Rio, citing ongoing clashes between police and criminal factions.
The raid drew criticism from human rights groups. The United Nations Human Rights Office said it was “horrified” by the scale of the violence and reminded authorities of their obligations under international law, urging prompt investigations.
Police raids in Rio are common ahead of major international events; next week, the city will host the C40 World Mayors Summit. Past raids, such as in the Jacarezinho favela in 2021, have also drawn global scrutiny for high civilian casualties.
