No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The Red Command countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are regular in Brazil prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in November.
