A police operation targeting the Red Command gang in the northern suburbs of Rio de Janeiro has resulted in the deaths of at least 64 individuals, marking it as one of the deadliest raids in Brazilian history. Among the deceased, four were police officers, according to state Governor Cláudio Castro. The operation, termed Operation Containment, led to the arrest of more than 80 people.
The operation commenced on Tuesday morning, involving around 2,500 security personnel. The Red Command reportedly mounted a strong response, utilizing gunfire, burning barricades, and drones to drop explosives. The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed concern regarding the operation, calling for “prompt and effective investigations.”
The targeted area, close to Rio’s airport, serves as a base for one of Brazil’s most influential organized crime groups. State officials mentioned that at least 50 of the deceased were identified by police as suspected criminals. Additionally, numerous people, including civilians, were reported injured amid the violence.
Local residents have described the affected hillside, home to approximately 300,000 people, as resembling a “war zone.” Access roads in the region have been closed. The Red Command has been known to expand its control over drug trafficking routes and hillside favelas in Rio state. During the raid, authorities confiscated over 200 kilograms of drugs and numerous firearms.
This operation followed a year-long investigation and involved collaboration between civil and military police. Many suspects are believed to belong to a faction from Pará state that has sought refuge in Rio de Janeiro. Such large-scale police operations are often observed in Brazil prior to significant international events, including the upcoming UN climate summit COP30 scheduled for November in Belem.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8x155engwpo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss