A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
At least 64 people lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's records.
Four security agents were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 people were detained.
Fierce clashes broke out when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, together with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police comes after a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the country.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
