Brazilian Crackdown on Drug Cartels: Major Law Enforcement Operation in Rio de Janeiro
Internal conflicts and the fight against organized crime in Brazil have attracted international attention following a large-scale police operation in Rio de Janeiro, marking one of the bloodiest in recent years.
During the special operation conducted in the suburbs of Aleman and Penha, at least 60 people lost their lives, including police officers.
The operation, involving a significant number of security forces and armored vehicles, aimed to dismantle the influential criminal group Comando Vermelho.
Tensions in the region have escalated, with authorities blaming the lack of federal assistance and criminals deploying advanced drone technology, such as FPV drones, to block exits from affected areas.
Official figures report about 56 arrests and over 250 warrants executed.
Local media suggest that the actual death toll may be much higher.
The operation was carried out just days before several international events in the city, including the C40 Mayors Summit and the Prince William Earthshot Prize ceremony, attended by global celebrities.
These activities are part of the preparations for the upcoming COP30 climate summit in northern Brazil.
This high level of violence underscores the ongoing challenges the government faces in controlling organized crime, highlighting the persistent threats to national security and regional stability.