At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's history.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 suspects were arrested.
Violent conflicts commenced when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements near the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group have been expanding their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
