No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
No less than 64 people died in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's past.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. In excess of 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
State officials stated a minimum of 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, together with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the country before major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
