At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
A minimum of 64 civilians died in a police operation against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. Over 80 people were detained.
Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
State officials said no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are regular in the country prior to major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.