A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the security action, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials stated no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
