At least 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people died in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. More than 80 suspects were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods close to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of a major illegal networks.
Local authorities said no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Locals have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are believed to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are regular in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
