At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. Over 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives stated.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Residents have compared the hillside area - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
