No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. More than 80 people were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command responded with gunfire, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is regarded as the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities stated at least 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are regular in the country before major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
