No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Organized Crime
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.
Violent conflicts commenced when about 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "shocked" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
State officials stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the country before important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
