No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
At least 64 individuals died in a police operation against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of AlemĂŁo and Penha, local authorities reported. More than 80 suspects were detained.
Intense confrontations broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Government representatives said at least 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
