A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 people died in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 suspects were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
State officials said no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Residents have compared the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
