At least 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people died in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. Over 80 individuals were arrested.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of a major organised crime groups.
State officials said at least 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows 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 Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in Brazil prior to major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.