No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the AlemĂŁo and Penha districts, state officials reported. More than 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations erupted when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods close to Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of a major organised crime groups.
State officials stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the city.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil before major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
