A full-scale police offensive in Rio de Janeiro has left at least 64 people dead — including four officers — after a violent confrontation with the city’s largest criminal syndicate, Comando Vermelho (CV).
The deadly raid, confirmed by officials on Tuesday, October 26, marked one of Brazil’s bloodiest crackdowns in recent years.
The joint force of over 2,500 military and civilian police launched Operacao Contencao (Operation Containment) to halt the CV’s growing control over parts of Rio.
Videos shared online showed black smoke rising from burning buildings, while continuous gunfire echoed through the city’s dense favelas.
Authorities say the mission is ongoing, with at least 81 suspects arrested and 42 high-powered rifles seized.
Drone Attack Escalates Tensions
During the raid, police reported that gang members deployed a drone to fire at officers in the Penha Complex — a first-of-its-kind tactic in Brazil’s drug wars.
The state government released a short clip showing what appeared to be an aerial strike against security forces.
Governor Cláudio Castro condemned the attack, describing the unfolding violence as “narco-terrorism” rather than ordinary crime.
He urged residents of the affected neighborhoods to remain indoors while the operation continues.
The governor also warned that the death toll may rise as the search intensifies. “We will not retreat,” he said in a televised briefing, “This is a fight for the soul of Rio de Janeiro.”
Comando Vermelho — the “Red Command” — has dominated Rio’s underworld for decades through drug trafficking, extortion, and armed control of territories.
The group’s growing sophistication, including its alleged use of drones and military-grade weapons, has raised questions about how far Brazil’s security crisis has evolved.
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