No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 civilians were killed in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 people were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.
The International human rights organization said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Locals have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.
