At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people were killed in a security raid cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.
Four police officers lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials stated. In excess of 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.
The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of a major criminal organizations.
State officials said no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Locals have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Gang Growth
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.