A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people died in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the AlemĂŁo and Penha districts, local authorities reported. Over 80 suspects were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when around 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities said at least 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Locals have described the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, together with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country ahead of important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
