A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs
No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. In excess of 80 people were detained.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed at least 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked across the area.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, along with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the country.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
