No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime

No less than 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past.

Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities reported. More than 80 individuals were detained.

Fierce clashes erupted when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated.

The United Nations human rights body said it was "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Mission Consequences

The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of a major illegal networks.

Local authorities said no less than 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

Numerous individuals were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Local Reaction

Community members have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the operation began.

Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.

Organized Crime Spread

The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.

Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, along with dozens of firearms.

Raid Preparation

The combined action by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.

Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.

Broader Context

Major law enforcement actions are regular in the country ahead of major international events in the nation.

The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.