The streets of northern Rio de Janeiro became a war zone on Tuesday. Burned cars, torched houses, and even drone counterattacks are some of the images captured in videos and photos of the clashes that erupted during the police operation against the Red Command.
The recordings were shared on social media. Some users even clarified:"It's not Gaza, it's Rio." And the newspaper O Globo was clear: "War in Rio."
The situation was triggered by a massive operation at the Alemão and Penha complexes in the northern part of the city. It is, in fact, the final phase of Operation Containment, which is targeting the Red Command.
Rio de Janeiro Police showed their own videos, with the trucks leaving the warehouses early in the morning to carry out the operations.
"The operation is being carried out in compliance with the requirements of ADPF 635. During the operation, officers are using portable body cameras. In addition, ambulances from the Military Police Rescue and Salvage Group are providing support," the security force said.
This is the police operation against the Red Command in Rio de Janeiro.
They also showed images of the loot taken after arresting several drug traffickers. Among the seized items, long and automatic weapons are prominent.
Neighbors, meanwhile, saw the fires burning in the streets of their neighborhoods from a distance. The fire could be seen rising into the sky, standing out above the rooftops and columns of smoke.
A charred car amid clashes between drug traffickers and police in Rio de Janeiro. Photo: Reuters
A charred car amid clashes between drug traffickers and police in Rio de Janeiro. Photo: Reuters
Authorities also released a short video showing a counterattack maneuver by drug traffickers: Using a drone, they launched grenades at the police.
War in Rio: Drug traffickers attack police with drones
Nearly 2,500 security officers are participating in the work, with 100 arrest warrants issued.
Scenes of war in Rio due to clashes between the police and the Red Command
One of the injured in the clashes between police and drug traffickers in Rio de Janeiro. AP Photo
People injured in clashes between police and drug traffickers in Rio de Janeiro. AP Photo
Police execute arrest warrants in Rio de Janeiro. Photo: Reuters
Police execute arrest warrants in Rio de Janeiro. Photo: Reuters
