No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 people were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
