No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a security raid targeting the organized crime group 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 Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. More than 80 suspects were detained.
Fierce clashes broke out when around 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the police operation, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas near Rio's airport is regarded as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
State officials confirmed a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the operation, together with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are regular in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.
