No less than 64 Dead in Rio's Most Extensive Security Action on Organized Crime

At least 64 individuals died in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history.

Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials stated. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody.

Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.

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

Operation Impact

The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of a major organised crime groups.

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

Numerous individuals were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Resident Accounts

Residents have likened the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced.

Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.

Gang Growth

The Red Command group has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.

Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, together with multiple guns.

Raid Preparation

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

Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the city.

Broader Context

Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the country before significant global gatherings in the South American nation.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.