A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 people were killed in a police operation against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Violent conflicts erupted when around 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements near the aerial transportation hub is seen as the main base of a major illegal networks.
State officials said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Community members have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.
