No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with shooting, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Community members have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country prior to significant global gatherings in the country.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.
