No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Gangs
A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history.
Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is seen as the main base of a major criminal organizations.
State officials stated at least 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Locals have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the operation, along with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are frequent in the South American nation before major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is scheduled in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
