No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Gangs
No less than 64 civilians were killed in a police operation targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's history.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are regular in the country ahead of important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
