At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Organized Crime
At least 64 people were killed in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. Over 80 people were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Residents have compared the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are regular in Brazil before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
