At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's past.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. Over 80 suspects were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Community members have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been growing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the city.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
