No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 civilians were killed in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. Over 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday morning. The Red Command responded with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Residents have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces follows a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil prior to major international events in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
