At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians died in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's past.
Four security agents lost their lives during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives said. Over 80 suspects were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with shooting, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Government representatives said a minimum of 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the country before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
