🔗 Share this article A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs Community members compared the region to a combat area after the raid A minimum of 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's past. Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives reported. More than 80 people were detained. Some 2,500 police forces participated in the police raid Violent conflicts commenced when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated. The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries". Operation Impact The informal settlements close to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups. Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting. Resident Accounts Residents have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started. Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region. Criminal Expansion The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities. Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, along with multiple guns. Raid Preparation The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry. Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are currently hiding in the city. Wider Perspective Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the country. The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.