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At least 64 people lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history.

Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. Over 80 individuals were detained.

Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, officials said.

The International human rights organization said it was "appalled" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Mission Consequences

The area of favelas adjacent to Rio's airport is considered to be the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.

Local authorities said at least 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

Numerous individuals were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Community Response

Community members have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.

Roads remain closed throughout the region.

Gang Growth

The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.

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

Mission Context

The combined action by various security forces was preceded by a year-long investigation.

Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.

Larger Framework

Major law enforcement actions are regular in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.