A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
No less than 64 people were killed in a security raid cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The International human rights organization expressed being "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements near the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Residents have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, in addition to multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country before major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.