At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Gangs
A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. More than 80 people were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is seen as the main base of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country before major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
