At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Gangs

No less than 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's history.

Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. In excess of 80 individuals were detained.

Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives confirmed.

The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Mission Consequences

The informal settlements close to the city's international airport is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.

Government representatives said at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Numerous individuals were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Local Reaction

Residents have compared the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.

Transport routes stay blocked across the area.

Organized Crime Spread

The Red Command group has been growing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.

Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, in addition to numerous weapons.

Operation Background

The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a year-long investigation.

Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.

Wider Perspective

Major law enforcement actions are regular in the country ahead of important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.

The UN climate summit COP30 is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.