No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a security raid against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is regarded as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials said at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Community members have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, in addition to multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in Brazil prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
