A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Gangs
No less than 64 civilians died in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. In excess of 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, along with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be members of a faction from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil ahead of major international events in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.
