At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
A minimum of 64 individuals died in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. More than 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods close to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Residents have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Gang Growth
The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement said more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, together with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.
