No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups
No less than 64 people died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's records.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. Over 80 individuals were detained.
Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.
Government representatives said at least 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Community members have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The Red Command group have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the raid, together with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry.
Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Extensive security missions are frequent in Brazil ahead of major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
