At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 individuals died in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas near Rio's airport is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials stated at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.