🔗 Share this article At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Criminal Groups Community members described the area to a combat area after the raid At least 64 civilians died in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the Brazilian state's past. Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. More than 80 people were detained. Some 2,500 law enforcement officers participated in the police raid Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The Red Command responded with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials stated. The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the security action, calling for "prompt and effective investigations". Mission Consequences The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups. State officials stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Resident Accounts Community members have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began. Transport routes stay blocked across the area. Organized Crime Spread The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities. Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the raid, together with multiple guns. Raid Preparation The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies follows a extended probe. Many of the individuals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area. Larger Framework Extensive security missions are regular in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation. The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the northern urban center in late autumn.