No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime
At least 64 individuals died in a police operation against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil before major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
