No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups

No less than 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's past.

Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. In excess of 80 people were detained.

Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.

The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Operation Impact

The area of favelas close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.

Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

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

Local Reaction

Residents have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.

Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.

Gang Growth

The Red Command group has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.

Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, along with numerous weapons.

Operation Background

The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.

Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.

Broader Context

Large-scale police operations are regular in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.

The United Nations climate conference COP30 is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.