No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people were killed in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
State officials confirmed at least 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Residents have compared the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by 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 the city.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country prior to major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
