No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities said no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Residents have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil prior to major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
