No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Gangs
No less than 64 people died in a security raid against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's records.
Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of AlemĂŁo and Penha, local authorities reported. More than 80 people were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when about 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with gunfire, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the security action, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.
Government representatives said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Residents have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed 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 regular in Brazil before major international events in the nation.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
