At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. More than 80 individuals were detained.
Intense confrontations erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives said no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the mission, in addition to numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
