At least 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 people lost their lives in a security raid against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.
State officials stated at least 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Residents have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil ahead of significant global gatherings in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.