A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
No less than 64 civilians were killed in a security raid targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of AlemĂŁo and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command responded with gunfire, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is regarded as the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities stated a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Residents have compared the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the operation, along with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil before major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
