At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials said. Over 80 people were taken into custody.
Fierce clashes broke out when around 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the security action, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas near Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of a major criminal organizations.
Local authorities stated a minimum of 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Locals have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.
Dozens of the suspects are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Larger Framework
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the northern urban center in November.
