At least 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 individuals died in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, officials stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the security action, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is regarded as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country ahead of major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.