At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of AlemĂŁo and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is regarded as the main base of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been growing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country before major international events in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
