At least 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives reported. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas adjacent to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Government representatives stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have likened the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the country before important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in November.
