At least 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Security Action on Gangs
No less than 64 people were killed in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. More than 80 people were detained.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas near Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Locals have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, together with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in late autumn.
