A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
A minimum of 64 people died in a police operation against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's history.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. More than 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials confirmed.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Community members have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in November.
