A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people were killed 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 history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives reported. More than 80 people were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of a major illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
