A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The Red Command countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, officials confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of a major criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have described the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are regular in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.
