At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
No less than 64 people died in a security raid against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's past.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 people were detained.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities stated at least 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have compared the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the raid, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country before significant global gatherings in the country.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
