At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals died in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when approximately 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Locals have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been increasing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, along with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the country ahead of major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.
