At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents were among those killed during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of a major illegal networks.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by various security forces was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the country before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.
