No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Gangs
No less than 64 individuals died in a security raid targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods near Rio's airport is seen as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Local authorities said no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, together with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation prior to major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
