At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 individuals were killed in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. Over 80 people were detained.
Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "shocked" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of a major organised crime groups.
State officials stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Locals have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the raid, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies comes after a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in Brazil prior to major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
