No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
At least 64 civilians died in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 individuals were detained.
Violent conflicts erupted when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is regarded as the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Residents have likened the hillside area - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, along with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
