At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements close to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The joint operation 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 Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are regular in the South American nation before major international events in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
