A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the police operation, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is considered to be the central command of a major illegal networks.
Government representatives stated at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement said 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 believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.
