A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people were killed in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of AlemĂŁo and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, together with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country 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 the eleventh month.
