Tourists Left Stranded During Police Operation in Rio's Favela

Mon Apr 20 2026 20:05:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A police operation targeting gang members in the Vidigal favela of Rio de Janeiro temporarily traps approximately 200 tourists atop the Morro Dois Irmãos while officers engage in a gunfight.

Around 200 tourists found themselves stranded at the summit of Morro Dois Irmãos when a police operation against the Comando Vermelho gang escalated into a gunfight, blocking their descent. Fortunately, they were able to descend safely after about 30 minutes, with police coordination ensuring their safety during the incident.

Approximately 200 tourists were trapped at the top of Morro Dois Irmãos, a popular viewpoint in Rio de Janeiro, when police conducted an operation targeting alleged members of the Comando Vermelho gang hidden in the Vidigal favela.

The main access point to the trail was blocked as gunfire erupted between law enforcement and suspects, leaving tourists alarmed and stranded. Video footage shared on social media captured the situation as they waited for rescue, with police helicopters flying overhead and gunfire echoing in the background.

One of the trapped tourists, Matilda Oliveiro, expressed her fear and surprise, saying, We had waited for sunrise and suddenly the guides asked us to sit down as we started hearing gunshots. Despite the chaos, she acknowledged the guides attempted to keep the situation under control.

After about 30 minutes, the group was able to safely descend. Many were reassured by the police presence and guidance from their leaders, who had been informed about the operation and coordinated efforts with authorities.

This incident raises ongoing concerns related to public safety in areas dominated by drug trafficking groups, such as Comando Vermelho, which enforce their own control over local communities by not only dealing drugs but also monopolizing services like gas and transportation.