A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a police operation against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements near the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
State officials confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation before major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
