A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's past.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 individuals were detained.
Violent conflicts commenced when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Residents have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, together with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are regular in Brazil ahead of important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.
