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A minimum of 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's records.

Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. Over 80 suspects were detained.

Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities confirmed.

The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Mission Consequences

The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.

Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Resident Accounts

Community members have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.

Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.

Gang Growth

The Red Command group has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.

Local law enforcement reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, together with dozens of firearms.

Mission Context

The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a extended probe.

Many of the individuals are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.

Wider Perspective

Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil ahead of major international events in the country.

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