In brief
Approximately 200 tourists were caught in a police operation gone awry at the top of the Morro Dois Irmãos in Rio de Janeiro, as officers engaged in a gunfight with members of the Comando Vermelho gang. The tourists were trapped for around 30 minutes until the situation was brought under control. Eyewitness accounts revealed the tense atmosphere as gunfire echoed nearby, but guides reassured the group amidst the chaos. Eventually, they were safely escorted down the mountain.
Around 200 people were trapped at the top of a popular Rio de Janeiro tourist spot during a police operation in the Vidigal favela. The trail leading to the top of Morro Dois Irmãos, popular for its views over Ipanema Beach, was blocked as police exchanged fire with alleged members of the Comando Vermelho gang believed to be hiding in the area.Video footage shared on social media showed the tourists sitting on the ground as a police helicopter flew overhead and gunshots were heard in the distance. One tourist, Matilda Oliveiro, recounted how she and her sister were instructed to sit down while waiting for sunrise and began hearing gunshots.Despite the tense situation, guides ensured that the group remained calm. After about 30 minutes, they were able to descend safely. Local guides had been informed about the police operation and were well-coordinated with law enforcement.The incident highlights the ongoing issues with gang activities in Rio, as Comando Vermelho continues to exert control over local areas, affecting both residents and visitors.
