Brazil: Police operation in Rio de Janeiro's Complexo da Penha area leaves at least 10 people dead Aug. 2

Event

A police operation and associated armed clashes between security forces and criminal suspects took place in the Vila Cruzeiro area of Complexo da Penha in northern Rio de Janeiro early Aug. 2, leaving at least 10 people dead and four others injured. The Battalion of Special Police Operations (Batalhao de Operacoes Policiais Especiais, BOPE) and the Coordination of Special Resources (Coordenadoria de Recursos Especiais, CORE) have reportedly remained deployed to search for additional suspects following the clashes. Furthermore, officials have begun work to clear barricades in the area. Local schools remained closed due to the exchange of fire Aug. 2.

Heightened security and disruptions to business and traffic are likely in the affected area through at least late Aug. 2. Transport disruptions along the Red Line Expressway (Linha Vermelha), which leads to Rio de Janeiro/Galeao - Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG), are possible. Further armed clashes cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Until officials give the all-clear, avoid traveling to or through the affected neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro and remain in your accommodations if in the area. Strictly heed instructions from local authorities.