A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
At least 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. Over 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts commenced when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of a major illegal networks.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country ahead of major international events in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
