No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 individuals were killed in a security raid targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of a major illegal networks.
Local authorities said 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.
Community Response
Community members have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been increasing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
