Rio police and residents in violent clashes ahead of World Cup

A controversial programme to drive drugs gangs from Brazil's shantytowns has led to accusations of police oppression and murder.

In Rio de Janeiro the authority's "pacification" project is aimed at driving out drugs gangs and tackling high levels of crime ahead of the football World Cup in June and July.

According to police, crack cocaine gangs are trying to move back in and reclaim their turf.

Locals have accused the police of being heavy-handed.

From Brazil, Wyre Davies reports.