At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 civilians died in a security raid targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's records.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. More than 80 suspects were detained.
Fierce clashes commenced when around 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials confirmed.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is seen as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the mission, along with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the city.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
