At least 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a security raid against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's history.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "shocked" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Residents have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the country prior to major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in late autumn.
