The untold story of Brazil’s deadliest police raid

In this episode, The Guardian's correspondent Tom Phillips recounts the devastating police operation that unfolded in the Complexo da Pena favela in Rio de Janeiro. On October 28th, residents awoke to a war-like atmosphere, characterized by gunfire and burning barricades. The police aimed to target the notorious Red Command drug faction, but the operation escalated into a significant bloodbath. The police claimed to have aimed at drug traffickers but later investigations revealed that a number of victims were innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.

As the operation progressed, community members were filled with sorrow and disbelief as bodies began to be transported from the hills. Eyewitness accounts pointed towards allegations of extrajudicial killings, complicating narratives surrounding the violence. Phillips highlights the emotional toll on the families affected, particularly mothers searching for their sons, and uncovering tragic stories of individuals who had no ties to crime. The sheer scale of violence sparked intense anger and despair within the community.

Police officials maintained that the operation was a success, despite failing to capture their primary target. However, the resulting casualties raised questions about the effectiveness and morality of such heavy-handed tactics. The episode concludes with reflections on the cyclical nature of violence in Rio and the political ramifications for the authorities involved, who may leverage the operation to gain public support for harsh policing strategies.