Rio's Tense Calm Before the Climate Storm

Rio de Janeiro is preparing to host major climate events, but a violent clash has left twenty people dead, including two police officers, just days before the C40 summit and the Earthshot Prize.

A Major Crackdown

The operation involved 2,500 security personnel targeting the Alemao and Penha favelas, poor and crowded areas on the city's outskirts. The governor labeled it a fight against narcoterrorism, but critics question whether it's merely a show of force before the world's eyes.

The Aftermath

• 20 fatalities, including 2 police officers
• 18 victims suspected of ties to drug trafficking
• 250 arrest and search warrants executed
• 56 arrests made

This operation was the largest ever against the Comando Vermelho gang.

A Repeated Pattern

Rio has a history of large-scale police actions before major international events, including the World Cup, Olympics, G20 summit, and BRICS summit. While these operations aim to clean up the streets, violence often returns once the global spotlight fades.

Upcoming Events

The city is set to host:

• C40 summit
• Earthshot Prize, featuring Prince William, Kylie Minogue, and Sebastian Vettel

These events are part of the lead-up to the COP30 climate summit in Belem.

Can Rio Present a Peaceful Face?

With violence being a daily reality for many, can the city truly showcase a peaceful image to the world?