A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's history.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the AlemĂŁo and Penha districts, local authorities said. More than 80 people were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is seen as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
State officials confirmed at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Residents have described the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, in addition to numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in November.
