At least 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's records.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives reported. Over 80 people were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts broke out when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have compared the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, together with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country prior to major international events in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
