No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
At least 64 people died in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern urban center in November.
