A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Organized Crime
No less than 64 people were killed in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials confirmed no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Many residents were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Resident Accounts
Community members have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, together with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The combined action by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
