No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people lost their lives in a security raid against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials said. In excess of 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Local authorities said at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the country prior to major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
