No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
At least 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization responded with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Community members have likened the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The criminal network has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The joint operation by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil before major international events in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.
