A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when around 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the police operation, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods near Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of a major illegal networks.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation before major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.
