At least 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Security Action on Organized Crime

A minimum of 64 individuals lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.

Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. Over 80 people were arrested.

Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials confirmed.

The International human rights organization expressed being "shocked" by the security action, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Mission Consequences

The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.

Government representatives said no less than 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Many residents were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Resident Accounts

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

Access ways continue shut across the area.

Organized Crime Spread

The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements.

Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the operation, together with dozens of firearms.

Raid Preparation

The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation.

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

Larger Framework

Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the nation.

The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.