A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people were killed in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the police action in the AlemĂŁo and Penha districts, state officials stated. More than 80 individuals were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation prior to significant global gatherings in the country.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
