🔗 Share this article A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Organized Crime Residents described the neighborhood to a combat area after the operation No less than 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history. Four police officers lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. More than 80 individuals were detained. Around 2,500 security personnel participated in Tuesday's operation Fierce clashes commenced when around 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities said. The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations". Raid Aftermath The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of a major criminal organizations. Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Dozens of people were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting. Community Response Locals have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced. Access ways continue shut across the area. Gang Growth The Red Command group has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities. Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, along with numerous weapons. Operation Background The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a extended probe. Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro. Broader Context Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the nation. The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in November.