No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians died in a security raid 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 law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. More than 80 individuals were detained.
Fierce clashes commenced when approximately 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in Brazil before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.
