🔗 Share this article At least 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Security Action on Gangs Community members described the neighborhood to a war zone after the raid No less than 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history. Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 people were arrested. Approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers were involved in Tuesday's operation Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with shooting, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said. The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "horrified" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations". Operation Impact The slum neighborhoods near Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups. Local authorities stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Numerous individuals were wounded, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting. Community Response Locals have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced. Access ways continue shut throughout the region. Organized Crime Spread The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements. Security forces said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons. Raid Preparation The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry. Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area. Larger Framework Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the country. The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.