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A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's records.

Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. In excess of 80 people were detained.

Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said.

The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "shocked" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Raid Aftermath

The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups.

Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Many residents were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Community Response

Community members have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.

Roads remain closed throughout the region.

Organized Crime Spread

The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.

Local law enforcement reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons.

Raid Preparation

The combined action by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.

Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.

Broader Context

Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the South American nation.

The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.