At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.
