At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Security Action on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 individuals lost their lives in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives said. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command responded with gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, officials confirmed.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Locals have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in November.
