A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four police officers lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of a major criminal organizations.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in November.