A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
No less than 64 people died in a police operation cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four security agents were among those killed during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. In excess of 80 individuals were detained.
Fierce clashes erupted when around 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Government representatives said at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Residents have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, together with numerous weapons.
Operation Background
The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
