A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
At least 64 people lost their lives in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four security agents were among those killed during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. Over 80 people were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been growing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
