Police Raid in Rio Favela Leaves 64 Dead – Brazil’s Deadliest Operation

In one of Brazil’s deadliest police raids, at least 64 people were killed during an operation in Rio de Janeiro’s Jacarezinho favela. The incident has sparked nationwide outrage, with human rights groups accusing authorities of excessive force.

Bloody Confrontation in Jacarezinho Favela

Hundreds of heavily armed police officers stormed Jacarezinho early Thursday, targeting a drug trafficking recruitment network linked to the Comando Vermelho (Red Command) cartel. Gunfire erupted for hours, leaving 63 suspected criminals and one police officer dead.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with bullets hitting homes and businesses. Videos on social media showed bodies in alleyways, raising questions about police conduct. Residents claim some victims were unarmed civilians.

Human Rights Groups Condemn “Massacre”

Amnesty International and other organizations have labeled the raid a “massacre”, demanding accountability.

Jurema Werneck, Amnesty Brazil Director:

“The high death toll raises serious concerns about police brutality in marginalized communities.”

Brazil’s police have a history of lethal operations in favelas, where crime syndicates often overpower law enforcement. A 2021 raid in Vila Cruzeiro left 28 dead, highlighting persistent issues.

Government Response & Political Backlash

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro has not publicly addressed the raid. Meanwhile, Rio Governor Cláudio Castro defended the operation as “necessary” against organized crime.

Critics argue that aggressive policing worsens violence rather than solving it.

International Reactions

The United Nations called for an independent investigation, condemning possible extrajudicial killings. Protests have erupted in Rio, with demands for justice for victims.

What’s Next for Jacarezinho?

As funerals begin, tensions remain high. Will authorities investigate police actions, or will favelas continue facing deadly crackdowns?