At least 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of AlemĂŁo and Penha, state officials stated. More than 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives confirmed.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "shocked" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods near Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
State officials said at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, together with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in Brazil prior to significant global gatherings in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.
