No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is regarded as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Community members have likened the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, together with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are considered affiliates of a group from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.
