Deadly Rio Police Raid: Photographer Witnesses Over 120 Bodies in Shocking Operation
A massive police operation in Rio de Janeiro has left more than 120 people dead, with residents and witnesses describing scenes of horror. On Tuesday, authorities launched a large-scale raid in the Penha and Alemão areas to target the Comando Vermelho gang, known for drug trafficking and violence. The action involved around 2,500 security officers and resulted in intense clashes, including attacks from explosive drones used by the gang.
Local photographer Bruno Itan arrived at the scene after residents alerted him to the unfolding events. He watched as families rushed bodies to Getúlio Vargas hospital, one after another. “The bodies just kept coming,” Itan said, recalling the endless stream. Barred from entering Penha by police at first, he slipped in using his knowledge of the area. There, he saw people searching hillsides for loved ones and bodies laid out in a public square. Many victims showed signs of severe injury, including stab wounds, with some appearing decapitated or badly disfigured. Families cried, fainted, and shouted in anger as they identified the dead.
Official reports confirm the high death toll. Rio’s public defender’s office counted 132 fatalities, mostly suspects, while police said 117 gang members were killed. Four officers also died in the fighting. More than 100 people were arrested during the raid. Governor Cláudio Castro called the operation a success against “narcoterrorists” and praised the fallen police as heroes. However, he claimed some bodies were tampered with—camouflage gear and weapons removed—to make officers look guilty. Police confirmed that such items were taken off certain corpses.
The raid has drawn sharp criticism. The United Nations human rights office expressed shock at the number of deaths in one operation. Brazil’s Supreme Court has ordered Governor Castro to appear and explain the police tactics. This event highlights ongoing struggles with gang violence in Rio’s favelas, where criminal groups control territories like businesses. As investigations continue, questions remain about the use of force and the impact on innocent lives.
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