A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 people were killed in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. Over 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the security action, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies follows a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are regular in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.
