At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a security raid against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "appalled" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Residents have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.