At least 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
No less than 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's history.
Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives stated.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is seen as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Residents have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, in addition to multiple guns.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil prior to major international events in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
