At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. More than 80 people were arrested.
Violent conflicts erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities confirmed.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Local authorities stated at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
