No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Gangs
At least 64 people died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Locals have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are regular in the country prior to significant global gatherings in the nation.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is taking place in the northern urban center in November.