No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
No less than 64 civilians were killed in a security raid targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. In excess of 80 individuals were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
State officials said a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Locals have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by various security forces was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.