A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a security raid against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is seen as the main base of a major illegal networks.
Local authorities stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Residents have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, together with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by various security forces comes after a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the country before major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
