A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. Over 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command responded with gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Residents have described the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the mission, in addition to numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
