A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a security raid against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.
Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody.
Violent conflicts erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command reacted using shooting, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, officials confirmed.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas near the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Local authorities stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Resident Accounts
Community members have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Access ways continue shut throughout the region.
Gang Growth
The Red Command group have been expanding 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 seized in the operation, together with numerous weapons.
Raid Preparation
The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Extensive security missions are regular in the country before significant global gatherings in the nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.
