No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime

A minimum of 64 civilians died in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's history.

Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. Over 80 suspects were arrested.

Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.

The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "shocked" by the security action, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Raid Aftermath

The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of a major organised crime groups.

State officials confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

Many residents were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Local Reaction

Residents have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.

Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.

Criminal Expansion

The criminal network has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities.

Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, together with multiple guns.

Operation Background

The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies comes after a extended probe.

Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.

Wider Perspective

Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation prior to 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.