At least 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Security Action on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a security raid against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's past.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.
Intense confrontations erupted when about 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization countered with shooting, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of a major criminal organizations.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Residents have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, together with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
