At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. Over 80 people were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities confirmed.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, along with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is scheduled in the northern urban center in November.
