No less than 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
At least 64 people were killed in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with gunfire, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in Brazil ahead of major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
