🔗 Share this article A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Criminal Groups Locals likened the region to a battlefield after the mission A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - 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 communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. In excess of 80 individuals were detained. Approximately 2,500 security personnel were involved in Tuesday's operation Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with gunfire, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said. The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations". Raid Aftermath The area of favelas adjacent to the city's international airport is regarded as the main base of a major organised crime groups. Local authorities stated at least 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals". Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Resident Accounts Residents have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the raid started. Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood. Organized Crime Spread The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities. Rio's police said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, together with multiple guns. Raid Preparation The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a year-long investigation. Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area. Broader Context Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the country. The international environmental meeting COP30 is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.