At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
No less than 64 people were killed in a security raid against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's records.
Four police officers lost their lives during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. More than 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
State officials said a minimum of 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.
Resident Accounts
Residents have likened the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The criminal network has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, together with multiple guns.
Raid Preparation
The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by 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 the metropolitan area.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country ahead of significant global gatherings in the nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
