A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
A minimum of 64 people died 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 Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation prior to significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
