A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with gunfire, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials stated.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
State officials stated at least 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country before major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
