A Police Civil operation in Rio's Maré complex on Tuesday (5) led to road closures on expressways, suspension of classes in 41 schools, and disruptions to health units. The target was a group linked to Comando Vermelho involved in vehicle and cargo thefts. Criminals reacted by blocking the Linha Vermelha.
The operation, part of the Operação Torniquete phase led by the Delegacia de Roubos e Furtos de Automóveis, targeted the Nova Holanda communities in Maré and Bonsucesso. Police executed search and seizure warrants against a criminal group suspected of vehicle and cargo thefts, illegal arms trade, and using front companies.
An armed confrontation occurred during the action. One suspect was shot, received aid, and died at a health unit; the case will be investigated by the Delegacia de Homicídios da Capital. Police arrested 12 people, recovered 28 stolen vehicles, seized 16 firearms—including a rifle—, two grenades, ammunition, drugs, cash, and rescued an illegally kept capuchin monkey.
In response, criminals invaded the Linha Vermelha lane toward downtown at Maré height and set objects on fire to block the road, according to the Polícia Militar. BPVE, 22º BPM, and other battalion teams removed the obstacles. Nine bus lines were affected, along with 41 schools suspending classes and at least two health units halting services for safety.
Police presence remained reinforced around Maré by late afternoon, with traffic backups and a tense atmosphere.
