No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups
At least 64 people died in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's past.
Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. More than 80 suspects were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command responded with gunfire, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements near the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Local authorities said no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Local Reaction
Residents have described the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation 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 at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.
