No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's records.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives reported. Over 80 suspects were detained.
Fierce clashes broke out when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the security action, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
State officials stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have described the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern urban center in late autumn.
