No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 individuals died in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's records.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials stated. In excess of 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization countered with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Community members have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation before significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
