At least 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. In excess of 80 people were detained.
Fierce clashes erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Community members have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil ahead of important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
