A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
At least 64 individuals were killed in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of a major organised crime groups.
State officials confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil before important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
