No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the country before major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
