No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
No less than 64 people died in a security raid cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's history.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. More than 80 suspects were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "shocked" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities said at least 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the city.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the country ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is scheduled in the northern urban center in November.
