No less than 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 people were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is seen as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
State officials confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.