At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 individuals were killed in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's history.
Four security agents lost their lives during the police action in the AlemĂŁo and Penha districts, state officials reported. Over 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization responded with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Locals have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, in addition to multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is taking place in the northern city of Belem in November.
