Huge raid on Rio gang leaves at least 10 people dead and 80 under arrest

RIO DE JANEIRO —
About 2,500 Brazilian police and soldiers carried out a massive operation targeting a drug-trafficking gang in Rio de Janeiro, resulting in the arrest of 80 suspects. The raid sparked intense shootouts that led to at least 10 fatalities.

Authorities described it as the largest raid in history, involving officers in helicopters and armored vehicles. The operation specifically targeted the infamous Red Command in the sprawling favelas of Complexo de Alemao and Penha.

While police did not confirm the exact number of casualties, local media reports suggested that numerous individuals lost their lives. An AP journalist witnessed the arrival of at least 10 bodies at the Getulio Vargas hospital, including two police officers, with many others sustaining injuries.

Social media footage captured scenes of fire and smoke engulfing the favelas as the sound of gunfire filled the air. As a result of the operation, 46 schools in the affected neighborhoods were closed.

Rio’s civil police announced the arrest of at least 80 suspects in connection with the criminal organization.

Governor Claudio Castro deemed the operation as the largest in the city’s history and called for increased federal support in combating crime.

The coordinated action on Tuesday followed a year-long investigation into the activities of the targeted criminal group.