More than 130 people have been killed in a brutal police operation in the favelas of Alemão and Penha in Rio de Janeiro. The government of the state of Rio justified the action with the fight against so-called "drug terrorism". Brazil's federal government, on the other hand, condemned the action. Partner organisations of Misereor speak of one of the biggest massacres in Brazil's history. Misereor is calling for an independent investigation into the events and better protection for local civil society.

Long-time Misereor partner Raquel Ludermir from Habitat para a Humanidade Brasil sharply criticises the violent actions of the Brazilian police: "'Operations' like this show that for some political actors, life in the favelas is worth nothing. In the favelas and urban peripheries, bloodshed and violence have become routine. When something like this happens, it is not only the relatives of the dead who are affected. Many children develop anxiety disorders and panic attacks, have constant nightmares and are afraid of gunfire and the noise of helicopters. Some are even unable to go to school."

Misereor calls for independent investigation

Clara-Luisa Weichelt, urban development expert at Misereor, emphasises: "Even though organised crime has increased and must be overcome, Misereor condemns this disproportionate violence by the state police. Nothing can justify it. There must be an independent investigation into the events. Our partners keep reporting bloody battles in the poor neighbourhoods - what has happened in Rio is a war-like situation. We are shocked. The violence is once again affecting the structurally disadvantaged population living in the favelas - especially (single) women, black people and indigenous people. Dozens of them are among the 132 people killed. Our partner organisations, such as Habitat para a Humanidade Brasil, are working together with the residents to ensure a dignified life in the city. We stand with them and condemn this brutal action in the strongest possible terms."