At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
No less than 64 individuals died in a security raid cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Locals have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
