No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Gangs
A minimum of 64 individuals died in a security raid cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Residents have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been increasing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in the country before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
