No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
A minimum of 64 civilians died in a police operation against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, in addition to dozens of firearms.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil prior to major international events in the country.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
