No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people died in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, officials confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the security action, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Government representatives said no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Community members have likened the hillside area - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the country before significant global gatherings in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.
