No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is seen as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are regular in Brazil ahead of major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.