At least 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 individuals lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. More than 80 suspects were arrested.
Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is seen as the central command of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the country before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in November.
