No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Gangs
A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 suspects were detained.
Fierce clashes broke out when around 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities said no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the city.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
