A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
State officials said no less than 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Locals have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The combined action by various security forces was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
