At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people were killed in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts commenced when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with gunfire, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
State officials said no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the raid, together with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in the country prior to significant global gatherings in the country.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.
