A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
A minimum of 64 individuals died in a security raid against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of AlemĂŁo and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations erupted when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The Red Command responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is seen as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces was preceded by a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
