A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals died in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. More than 80 individuals were detained.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command countered with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Residents have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The joint operation by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are regular in Brazil before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in November.
