No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians were killed in a police operation against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 suspects were detained.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with shooting, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Locals have compared the hillside area - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, in addition to multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be members of a faction from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country ahead of major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.
