No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people died in a law enforcement action targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. More than 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the operation, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces comes after a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in Brazil before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.
