A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 individuals lost their lives in a security raid targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. In excess of 80 people were detained.
Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding 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 seized in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil prior to significant global gatherings in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
