No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime
A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. More than 80 people were detained.
Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said.
The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the main base 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 injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Locals have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the South American nation prior to major international events in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
