A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials said. More than 80 suspects were arrested.
Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with shooting, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to the city's international airport is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
Local authorities said no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Locals have compared the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the country before major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.
