At least 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Organized Crime
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. In excess of 80 people were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho responded with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is seen as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have compared the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are regular in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
