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No less than 64 individuals were killed in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.

Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. Over 80 people were detained.

Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials confirmed.

The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Operation Impact

The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.

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

Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Community Response

Residents have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the operation began.

Roads remain closed throughout the region.

Organized Crime Spread

The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.

Local law enforcement said more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, together with multiple guns.

Mission Context

The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a year-long investigation.

Dozens of the suspects are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.

Wider Perspective

Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of significant global gatherings in the nation.

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