At least 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization responded with gunfire, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities said at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the operation, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.
