A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians died in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. Over 80 people were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts erupted when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
State officials stated at least 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are regular in the South American nation before major international events in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
