Brazil’s Commando Vermelho Gang Crushed: 2,500 Police Raid Leaves 64 Dead in Rio’s Bloodiest Encounter

International News: Brazilian security agencies launched "Operation Containment" against criminals and gangsters in the capital, Rio do Janeiro. A gunfight broke out between 2,500 police officers and criminals. Sixty-four people, including four police officers, were killed in the operation. The large number of deaths has raised international questions.

Governor Claudio Castro issued a statement saying that the police had eliminated 60 criminals and detained 81 people. During the operation, more than 250 arrest and search warrants were issued, and 42 rifles were seized. This operation was launched against drug trafficking and organized crime. The police targeted the Commando Vermelogang.

Brazil's oldest gang

The Commando Vermelho (CV) was founded in the 1970s at the Ilha Grande prison. It is Brazil's oldest and most powerful criminal organization. It is also known as the Red Command. In the 1970s, common criminals and leftist leaders were held together in the prison. These leaders and criminals formed an organization. The organization's purpose was to protect themselves and defend themselves against prison violence.

How did the gang get this name?

In 1979, prison authorities named it Commando Vermelho. In the 1980s, the gang spread outside the prison system into the poor neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro. Gradually, it became involved in the cocaine and other drug trade. The gang began collaborating with Colombian cartels and Amazonian traffickers to sell drugs. By 1985, the gang controlled 70% of the drug trade in Rio's slums.

There are 30,000 members of this gang in Brazil

The gang's current leader is Luiz Fernando da Costa, also known as "Fernandinho Beira-Mar." He controls the gang from prison. Currently, the gang has approximately 30,000 members operating throughout Brazil. Commando Vermelho is primarily involved in drug trafficking, arms trafficking, extortion, and kidnapping.

Red Command's modus operandi has evolved over time. In 2025, CV also used digital methods. They created Rotax Mobili, a ride-sharing app used to smuggle drugs. It was later shut down by Rio police.

This gang enforces its rules in poor neighborhoods and maintains control through violence and fear. The gang also distributes food in poor neighborhoods. Emerging from a prison in Rio de Janeiro, this gang has now established control in residential areas.