A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Organized Crime
At least 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. Over 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods close to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.