No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's past.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. More than 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations erupted when around 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is seen as the main base of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities said at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Residents have compared the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
