A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a police operation against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. In excess of 80 people were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been increasing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, in addition to multiple guns.
Operation Background
The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation prior to significant global gatherings in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.
