At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 people were detained.
Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of a major illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Locals have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil ahead of important worldwide conferences 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.
