No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. In excess of 80 suspects were arrested.
Intense confrontations erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives stated at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Residents have likened the hillside area - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces comes after a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
