Brazilian troops occupy Rio slum ahead of World Cup

  • 10 years ago
On the streets of Rio de Janeiro, a war is being raged.

Brazil's military is moving in, taking over a slum known as Complexo da Mare.

They're on a mission to end a recent surge in violent crime and prevent further conflict ahead of the World Cup.

More than 1,400 Brazilian troops and police entered the slum, located in the city's north zone not far from Rio's international airport.

During the operation, troops confiscated drugs and guns.

Rio's governor had ordered the operation after attacks by drug traffickers on police posts in the area.

An estimated 140,000 people live there in what officials say is Rio's latest "pacified" favela.

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