A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime
At least 64 people were killed in a security raid against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives said. Over 80 suspects were arrested.
Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Locals have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
