At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. Over 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
State officials said no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are regular in the country before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
