At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 individuals were detained.
Intense confrontations erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods close to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces follows a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.
