No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's history.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 people were arrested.
Violent conflicts broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Government representatives stated a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Locals have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been increasing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the raid, in addition to multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are regular in the South American nation prior to major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.