A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Largest Security Action on Organized Crime
No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a security raid cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed at least 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the mission, together with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
