A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The Red Command reacted using shooting, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
State officials confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Residents have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the country prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
