Protests after police raid leaves at least 121 dead in two Rio slums

Penha favela residents protest after a deadly police operation left at least 121 people dead (Silvia Izquierdo/AP)

A massive police raid targeting a drug-trafficking gang in Rio de Janeiro left at least 121 people dead, authorities said on Thursday morning.

The operation began on Tuesday in two of the city’s favelas, sparking intense gun battles. An unknown number of people were wounded. Among the dead were four police officers, according to officials.