No less than 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Criminal Groups

A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.

Four security agents were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 people were taken into custody.

Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.

The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Raid Aftermath

The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of a major criminal organizations.

Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".

Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Community Response

Residents have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the raid started.

Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.

Gang Growth

The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.

Local law enforcement reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, in addition to multiple guns.

Mission Context

The joint operation by civil and military police comes after a extended probe.

Dozens of the suspects are believed to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.

Broader Context

Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the country.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.