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France 24

Rio residents divided over deadly historic raid against drug gang

France 24 · New
France 24
France 24
New

The death toll from a massive police raid targeting a drug trafficking gang in Rio de Janeiro has risen to at least 121 people, including four police officers. Rio’s right-wing governor has hailed the raid as a success, but some have criticized the operation, accusing authorities of using excessive force.

Breakdown
  • A police officer, Herberto Carvalho de Fonseca, was among those killed in a major raid targeting the Red Command gang.
  • The operation is considered the most violent police action in Brazil's recent history, resulting in dozens of deaths. 11s
  • Some Rio residents support the raid as necessary for safety, while others are troubled by the level of violence. 26s
  • The governor of Rio has called the raid a success, but critics question the identification of those killed and the use of force. 51s
  • The United Nations has called for an independent investigation, and the operation has sparked protests and calls for the governor's resignation. 1m 22s
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