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At least 64 civilians were killed in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history.

Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. More than 80 suspects were arrested.

Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities stated.

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

Operation Impact

The area of favelas adjacent to the city's international airport is seen as the central command of a major organised crime groups.

Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".

Many residents were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Local Reaction

Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the raid started.

Access ways continue shut across the area.

Gang Growth

The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.

Local law enforcement reported over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the mission, along with numerous weapons.

Mission Context

The combined action by various security forces comes after a extended probe.

Many of the individuals are thought to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.

Broader Context

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

The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.