Rio Raid Kills 64 Ahead of COP30 Events

On Oct. 28, Brazilian security forces launched a massive raid in Complexo do Alemão and Penha favelas targeting the Comando Vermelho, involving about 2,500 police and soldiers. Officials described the operation as the largest and deadliest in the state’s history; it left at least 64 people dead, including four police officers, and resulted in roughly 81 arrests. Authorities said they seized a large quantity of drugs and dozens of rifles (official counts vary between about 42 and 75) and released footage showing suspects using drones armed with grenades while gangs burned cars and blocked roads. The clashes disrupted schools, universities, hospitals and bus services, with reports of bystanders wounded and families gathered at hospitals amid smoke and gunfire. Human rights groups and the U.N. human rights office called for prompt, effective investigations and criticized the operation’s civilian toll, while Rio officials urged greater federal support as the city prepares to host C40 mayoral events and the Earthshot Prize ahead of COP30.