At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's history.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives reported. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with gunfire, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas adjacent to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
State officials said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Residents have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, in addition to multiple guns.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country prior to significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
