A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 people died in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 suspects were detained.
Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "appalled" by the security action, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
State officials stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Locals have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the country prior to significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the northern urban center in November.