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

No less than 64 people lost their lives in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.

Four security agents lost their lives during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. Over 80 individuals were arrested.

Intense confrontations erupted when about 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with shooting, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.

The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Mission Consequences

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

Local authorities stated a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".

Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Local Reaction

Community members have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.

Roads remain closed across the area.

Organized Crime Spread

The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.

Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, together with dozens of firearms.

Operation Background

The coordinated mission by various security forces was preceded by a extended probe.

Many of the individuals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.

Broader Context

Extensive security missions are not uncommon in Brazil before major international events in the country.

The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.