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At least 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.

Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.

Intense confrontations commenced when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.

The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the police operation, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Mission Consequences

The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is regarded as the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.

Local authorities confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Local Reaction

Residents have compared the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the operation began.

Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.

Gang Growth

The Red Command group has been growing their control throughout the region, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.

Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, along with numerous weapons.

Mission Context

The coordinated mission by various security forces comes after a year-long investigation.

Many of the individuals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.

Broader Context

Large-scale police operations are regular in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the nation.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.