At least 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a security raid targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is seen as the central command of a major illegal networks.
State officials said no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Community members have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies comes after a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the city.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil ahead of significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
