At least 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Organized Crime
At least 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's past.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.
The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The informal settlements close to the city's international airport is considered to be the main base of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities said at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Community Response
Residents have described the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, together with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are believed to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Larger Framework
Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.