🔗 Share this article A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Organized Crime Community members described the neighborhood to a combat area after the operation A minimum of 64 civilians lost their lives in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past. Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody. Around 2,500 law enforcement officers were involved in the police raid Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives confirmed. The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations". Operation Impact The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations. Government representatives stated no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals". Dozens of people were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Local Reaction Residents have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began. Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood. Criminal Expansion The Red Command group has been increasing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas. Local law enforcement stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the mission, along with numerous weapons. Mission Context The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a year-long investigation. Numerous alleged criminals are considered affiliates of a group from the northern region who are presently concealed in the city. Broader Context Extensive security missions are regular in Brazil before important worldwide conferences in the nation. The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.