No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Gangs
At least 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's records.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. More than 80 suspects were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of a major illegal networks.
State officials confirmed a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country before important worldwide conferences in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
