At least 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with gunfire, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Local authorities said no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Residents have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
