A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Gangs
No less than 64 people died in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. More than 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities said at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are regular in the country prior to significant global gatherings in the country.
The international environmental meeting COP30 is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
