At least 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives said. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Red Command countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements near the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Locals have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern urban center in November.
