No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Organized Crime
At least 64 individuals were killed in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's past.
Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with gunfire, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the police operation, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
State officials stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, along with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by various security forces follows a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil ahead of significant global gatherings in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
