Residents in Rio de Janeiro woke up to fear and chaos on Tuesday morning. What began as a normal day in the northern suburbs quickly turned into a scene of terror as gunshots and explosions rang out during a major police operation targeting one of Brazil’s most dangerous criminal gangs, the Red Command (Comando Vermelho). The mission, called Operation Containment, has now become the deadliest police raid in Rio de Janeiro state’s history.

At least 64 people were killed in the clash, including four police officers, according to state Governor Cláudio Castro. More than 80 people were arrested. Police say they were trying to take control of areas in the Alemão and Penha districts, which are known strongholds of organised crime. Burning barricades filled the streets. Families hid inside their homes, worried for their loved ones, while children cried as helicopters hovered above the crowded favelas.

Around 2,500 security personnel were deployed for the raid. As police entered the favelas, violent clashes broke out. The Red Command responded with heavy gunfire, burning roadblocks, and even dropping bombs from drones, officials said. The violence made the situation extremely unsafe, not just for police, but also for ordinary people living in the community.

State officials claim that out of those killed, at least 50 were suspected criminals. However, these numbers have raised questions and concerns around the world. Many fear that some people may have been killed without proper investigation or proof of involvement in crime.

The United Nations Human Rights Office said it was “horrified” by the raid and called for a prompt and effective investigation into the deaths. Human rights groups say that operations like this often leave innocent people at risk and deepen fear among poor communities.

Dozens of civilians were injured, many caught in the crossfire while trying to escape or protect their families. Even as the operation ends, the people living in these neighbourhoods are left with trauma and unanswered questions, wondering when peace will return to their homes, and whether this deadly raid will truly make their streets safer.