At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime
At least 64 civilians were killed in a police operation targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past.
Four security agents were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. In excess of 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes erupted when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives confirmed.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the security action, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the city's international airport is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives said at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Locals have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, along with multiple guns.
Operation Background
The combined action by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country prior to significant global gatherings in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.
