No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
No less than 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts erupted when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "appalled" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives stated at least 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is taking place in the northern urban center in November.
