A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
At least 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's records.
Four security agents were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials said.
The International human rights organization said it was "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas near Rio's airport is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
State officials stated at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Many residents were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Local Reaction
Community members have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, in addition to numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are regular in the country before major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in November.
