No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. In excess of 80 suspects were arrested.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Red Command countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "shocked" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
Local authorities confirmed at least 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Locals have compared the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, in addition to multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation before major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.
