No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people died in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements near the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, together with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The joint operation by various security forces follows a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in Brazil ahead of major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.
