No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 people died in a police operation targeting the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 individuals were detained.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Locals have likened the hillside area - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern urban center in November.
