A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 individuals died in a security raid against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, officials stated.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the security action, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been increasing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the operation, along with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the city.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil before major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
