No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
At least 64 individuals were killed in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "appalled" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
