No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a law enforcement action against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's past.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. More than 80 individuals were detained.
Intense confrontations erupted when around 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities confirmed.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods close to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of a major illegal networks.
Local authorities said at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Locals have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
