A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
At least 64 individuals died in a security raid targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. Over 80 suspects were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Local authorities confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the raid, along with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies comes after a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country before major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.