At least 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. Over 80 suspects were detained.
Fierce clashes broke out when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization countered with shooting, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods near Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
State officials said no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.
