A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's past.
Four police officers lost their lives during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 individuals were detained.
Fierce clashes commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives confirmed.
The International human rights organization expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Locals have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.