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Rio’s Deadliest Police Raid Leaves 132 Dead as Bodies Line the Streets

A mourner leans over a body, the day after a deadly police operation against drug trafficking at the favela do Penha, in Rio de Janeiro. The death toll from a massive police operation in Rio de Janeiro has risen to 132 , making it the deadliest raid in the city’s history. Residents of the Penha and Alemão favela complexes awoke to scenes of horror as dozens of corpses were laid out in the streets by grieving families searching for missing relatives. The raids, part of “Operation Containment,” targeted the powerful Comando Vermelho (Red Command) gang, a criminal faction long associated with drug trafficking and violence in Rio’s northern neighborhoods. More than 2,500 police officers , supported by helicopters and armored vehicles, were deployed in what was described as a meticulously planned crackdown. Officials hailed the operation as a blow to organized crime, but criticism has mounted over the scale of the violence. Human rights advocates and local residents accused police of ca...

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Black Friday shoppers pulling back on spending

 

 According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, Black Friday sales in the U.S. dropped by 28% compared to 2019, as shoppers avoided crowded stores and opted for online shopping instead.

Here ate the main reasons cited for this trend:

  • Online shopping surge: Online sales on Black Friday reached a record $9 billion, up 21.6% from last year, according to Adobe Analytics. Cyber Monday is expected to be the biggest online shopping day in U.S. history, with sales projected to reach $10.8 billion.
  • Pandemic impact: The coronavirus pandemic has changed consumer behavior and preferences, as people seek convenience, safety, and value. Many retailers have extended their sales period and offered curbside pickup or free delivery options to attract customers.
  • Holiday season outlook: Despite the lower turnout on Black Friday, the NRF predicts that overall holiday sales will increase by 3.6% to 5.2% over 2019, reaching between $755.3 billion and $766.7 billion. However, the uncertainty around the pandemic and the economy could affect consumer confidence and spending.

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