At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives stated.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.
