A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's records.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas near Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.
