At least 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a police operation against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities reported. In excess of 80 suspects were arrested.
Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is regarded as the main base of a major organised crime groups.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Locals have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the country before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference COP30 is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.
