Deadly Rio Raid Exposes Billion-Dollar Gang Networks

Massive Operation
On October 28, 2,500 police and soldiers raided Rio’s Complexo da Penha and Complexo do Alemão favelas targeting the Comando Vermelho (Red Command). The crackdown left 117 suspected gang members and four officers dead. Authorities seized 118 weapons and about a ton of drugs.

Life Under Gangs
Favelas remain under tight gang control. Residents live in fear as gangs dictate who can operate businesses, provide services, and even influence local politics.

Prison Origins
Founded in 1979 in a Rio prison, the Red Command evolved into one of Brazil’s most powerful gangs. Its main rival, Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), competes over drug routes and territory, fueling deadly conflicts.

Ongoing Challenges
Raids disrupt criminal activity but do not dismantle leadership, which continues to operate from prisons. Experts warn militarized responses perpetuate cycles of violence and instability in communities.