A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Gangs
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a security raid against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives said. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives confirmed.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities stated at least 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Residents have likened the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in Brazil prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
