At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people were killed in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. In excess of 80 people were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is seen as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
State officials confirmed a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are regular in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in late autumn.
