A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime

A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a police operation targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past.

Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials stated. In excess of 80 people were arrested.

Fierce clashes broke out when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with shooting, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.

The United Nations human rights body expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".

Operation Impact

The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is seen as the main base of a major organised crime groups.

State officials said at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Community Response

Residents have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started.

Access ways continue shut across the area.

Gang Growth

The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.

Local law enforcement said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the operation, together with dozens of firearms.

Raid Preparation

The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.

Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.

Larger Framework

Large-scale police operations are regular in the country before major international events in the nation.

The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.