A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
State officials stated no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, in addition to numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered affiliates of a group from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation before major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
