No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command responded with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
State officials said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Residents have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the operation, together with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
