At least 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Organized Crime
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods close to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Community members have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, in addition to multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in Brazil before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
