No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
At least 64 people died in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's records.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. Over 80 suspects were arrested.
Intense confrontations erupted when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The Red Command responded with shooting, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements near the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the South American nation before major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.
