Approximately 200 tourists were trapped at the top of a popular tourist destination in Rio de Janeiro during a police operation aimed at arresting members of the Comando Vermelho gang. The operation occurred at Morro Dois Irmãos, renowned for its stunning views over Ipanema Beach.
The police encountered gunfire while attempting to enter Vidigal, blocking the main access route to the hiking trail, leaving visitors shaken and stranded.
Videos shared on social media depicted the group sitting anxiously as a police helicopter circled overhead, with gunfire audible in the distance. Matilda Oliveiro, a Portuguese tourist, shared her experience, recalling how they were asked to sit down just as the gunfire began.
We had waited for sunrise, and then all of a sudden, we were told to sit down because of gunshots, she recalled. Despite the tense situation, she expressed confidence in the police's response.
After approximately 30 minutes, the tourists were safely escorted down the trail. The guides, who were aware of the police operation, managed the situation calmly, reassuring visitors of their safety.
The Comando Vermelho gang maintains a stronghold in the area, exerting control not only over drug sales but also various essential services within their territories.
