A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of a major illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Residents have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation prior to major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern urban center in November.
