A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 individuals were killed in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of AlemĂŁo and Penha, local authorities said. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Fierce clashes broke out when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
State officials confirmed a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Locals have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the raid, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the country before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
