A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a security raid against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Local authorities stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been growing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the country before major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.