At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the AlemĂŁo and Penha districts, state officials said. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
Local authorities said at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been growing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the operation, in addition to multiple guns.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are thought to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
