A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Gangs
No less than 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 suspects were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities stated.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
State officials said at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Gang Growth
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are regular in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.