Brazil deploys armored vehicles to combat gang violence

Brazil deploys armored vehicles to combat gang violence

2010-11-26 08:46:25 GMT+7 (ICT)

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL (BNO NEWS) -- Brazilian authorities on Thursday launched an operation in Vila Cruzeiro which included the deployment of armored vehicles to combat gang violence in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, the Jornal do Brasil newspaper reported.

At about 12:30 a.m. local time, approximately 150 members of the Special Police Operations Battalion (Bope) and the military police force arrived to the streets of Vila Cruzeiro, a suburb of Rio.

In addition, authorities also sent fifteen vehicles and six tanks that joined the ten vehicles that were already in the favela. The six armored vehicles were unloaded and set behind the Vargas Getulio Hospital.

The operation, which was planned by the military police, is reportedly a significant mission that reportedly targets the leaders of the drug gangs that initiated the violent clashes in the favelas. The fights have caused the closure of stores and schools as well.

On Wednesday, 21 people were injured and four of them died later at a local hospital. Since Sunday, 25 people have been killed as violent clashes between police forces and drug gangs continued for a fifth day.

Since the unrest at least 153 people have been detained. In addition, gang members have set fire to 29 vehicles, including cars, vans and buses. Police forces also seized 13 handguns, six rifles, one shotgun, one sub-machine gun, a grenade and two homemade explosive devices.

The attacks were allegedly planned by the two major drug gangs in Rio de Janeiro, the Red Commando and Friends of Friends. The two groups are trying to force the government to slowdown its policy of cracking down drug dealers in the city's favelas.

Resident of Rio de Janeiro are becoming more concerned as the wave of violence appears to be spreading and is now threatening the wealthiest part of the city. Governor Sergio Cabral asked residents to stay calm and continue with their daily business.

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