At least 64 individuals died in a security raid against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's past.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated.
The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".
Raid Aftermath
The slum neighborhoods close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.
State officials said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Community Response
Community members have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Organized Crime Spread
The criminal network has been increasing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, along with dozens of firearms.
Mission Context
The combined action by civil and military police comes after a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.
Wider Perspective
Large-scale police operations are regular in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the nation.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
