🔗 Share this article A minimum of 64 Dead in Rio's Largest Security Action on Gangs Community members likened the area to a war zone after the raid At least 64 civilians died in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past. Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 people were taken into custody. Some 2,500 security personnel participated in the police raid Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 police forces initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization responded with shooting, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said. The United Nations human rights body expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations". Mission Consequences The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of a major illegal networks. State officials stated a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Numerous individuals were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence. Resident Accounts Community members have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began. Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood. Gang Growth The criminal network have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities. Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, in addition to dozens of firearms. Operation Background The joint operation by various security forces was preceded by a year-long investigation. Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area. Larger Framework Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the South American nation. The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in November.