No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history.
Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. More than 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts commenced when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "shocked" by the security action, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
