A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Organized Crime
At least 64 civilians were killed 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 past.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
State officials stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
