A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is regarded as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
State officials confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, in addition to multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
