No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials stated. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of a major illegal networks.
Government representatives said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation before major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
