At least 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Gangs
A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's records.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Fierce clashes erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the security action, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The informal settlements near the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Government representatives said no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Locals have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Access ways continue shut across the area.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The coordinated mission by civil and military police comes after a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
