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A minimum of 64 individuals lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - 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. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody.

Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho countered with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.

The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Operation Impact

The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is regarded as the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.

Government representatives stated a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".

Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Community Response

Community members have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.

Roads remain closed across the area.

Gang Growth

The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.

Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, together with multiple guns.

Operation Background

The combined action by different law enforcement agencies follows a twelve-month inquiry.

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

Wider Perspective

Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation before major international events in the South American nation.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.