No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
At least 64 individuals lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is seen as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives said at least 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Community members have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, in addition to numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the country ahead of major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
