A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people died in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's past.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 people were detained.
Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
State officials confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be members of a faction from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil ahead of important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in November.
