🔗 Share this article A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Gangs Locals described the area to a war zone after the mission At least 64 individuals lost their lives in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's history. Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials stated. In excess of 80 people were taken into custody. Some 2,500 security personnel took part in the police raid Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Red Command countered with gunfire, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities confirmed. The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "shocked" by the security action, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations". Operation Impact The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups. Government representatives said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence. Resident Accounts Community members have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started. Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood. Organized Crime Spread The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas. Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the operation, along with dozens of firearms. Raid Preparation The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a year-long investigation. Dozens of the suspects are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city. Broader Context Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in Brazil prior to major international events in the country. The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in late autumn.