On October 28, 2025, a police operation targeting the Comando Vermelho criminal gang in Rio de Janeiro resulted in the deaths of 121 individuals, including four police officers. The operation, which involved 2,500 officers, was described by Rio de Janeiro State Governor Claudio Castro as a success due to the seizure of over 100 rifles. However, human rights groups have raised concerns regarding the operation’s high death toll and the brutality of law enforcement’s actions.
Local media have highlighted that none of the deceased matched the 68 suspects identified in arrest warrants, raising questions about the operation’s effectiveness. While many suspects were apprehended during the raid, Edgar Alves de Andrade, the gang’s most powerful leader, reportedly remained at large, prompting some experts to label the operation a failure in terms of its stated objectives.
The deputy intelligence secretary for Rio’s military police classified the operation’s impact on dismantling Comando Vermelho as “negligible.” Residents in the targeted areas noted that the gang’s control persisted, with armed members still visible in their communities shortly after the raid. Comando Vermelho not only controls drug trafficking but also provides essential services like gas and internet, often at inflated prices.
Punishments for perceived infractions within gang-controlled areas are severe, with harsh penalties for theft or defiance. Police investigations into gang activities reveal disturbing practices, including violent coercion. Following the operation, Rio’s Public Prosecutor’s Office filed complaints citing increasing violence and territorial expansion by Comando Vermelho, leading to the police intervention.
Amidst these developments, Governor Castro announced further operations against organized crime, despite calls for scrutiny of the police actions during the raid. A federal investigation has been initiated, while Castro’s approval ratings have reportedly increased since the operation.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62012e6g9lo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss