A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a police operation against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. In excess of 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "horrified" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of a major illegal networks.
State officials said at least 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 mountainous region - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, together with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in November.
