A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians died in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. Over 80 people were detained.
Fierce clashes commenced when approximately 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the security action, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is seen as the main base of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities said at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Community members have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are believed to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are regular in Brazil before important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.
