At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
A minimum of 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's past.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. More than 80 suspects were arrested.
Fierce clashes commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas near the aerial transportation hub is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities said no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the country ahead of major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
