🔗 Share this article A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs Community members compared the region to a battlefield after the operation At least 64 individuals were killed in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's past. Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. In excess of 80 people were arrested. Some 2,500 security personnel participated in Tuesday's operation Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said. The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations". Operation Impact The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is seen as the central command of a major illegal networks. Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence. Resident Accounts Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started. Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood. Criminal Expansion The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas. Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the operation, along with dozens of firearms. Operation Background The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a extended probe. Dozens of the suspects are believed to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area. Wider Perspective Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country prior to major international events in the nation. The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.