At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of AlemĂŁo and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Residents have compared the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are regular in the country before major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.
