No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Gangs
At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. Over 80 people were arrested.
Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.
The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Mission Consequences
The informal settlements close to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Residents have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.
Local law enforcement stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the mission, together with numerous weapons.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the country.
The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in November.
