At least 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a security raid targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 suspects were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the main base of a major criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have likened the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country prior to major international events in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in November.
