A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 people lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. Over 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts broke out when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated a minimum of 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Locals have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces comes after a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
