A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Organized Crime
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the AlemĂŁo and Penha districts, state officials stated. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The Red Command countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of a major criminal organizations.
Government representatives said no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the operation, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation before significant global gatherings in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in November.
