A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
At least 64 people died in a police operation against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. In excess of 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The combined action by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country before major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.
