No less than 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals were killed in a security raid against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's history.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives said. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the security action, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of a major illegal networks.
Government representatives 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.
Community Response
Residents have described the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, together with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
