At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 civilians died in a police operation against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. Over 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "shocked" by the security action, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of a major criminal organizations.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Residents have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, together with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country ahead of major international events in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.