A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
A minimum of 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's past.
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 individuals were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
State officials said at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, along with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation before major international events in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
