At least 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a security raid against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations erupted when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Community members have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement said more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are regular in the country ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
