No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 individuals died in a security raid targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials said. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when about 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization countered with shooting, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives stated.
The International human rights organization said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is considered to be the central command of a major criminal organizations.
Government representatives said a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.