At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people died in a police operation against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's records.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives stated.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
State officials confirmed at least 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Locals have compared the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement said more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.