🔗 Share this article No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups Locals compared the area to a war zone after the raid A minimum of 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's records. Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. More than 80 people were taken into custody. Approximately 2,500 security personnel took part in the security action Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said. The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries". Mission Consequences The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is seen as the main base of a major illegal networks. Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence. Local Reaction Community members have described the hillside area - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced. Roads remain closed across the area. Gang Growth The Red Command group has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements. Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the operation, together with multiple guns. Operation Background The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry. Numerous alleged criminals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area. Broader Context Large-scale police operations are regular in the South American nation prior to major international events in the South American nation. The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.