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At least 64 people died in a security raid targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's past.

Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.

Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities stated.

The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the security action, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Mission Consequences

The area of favelas near the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.

State officials stated a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Community Response

Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the operation began.

Roads remain closed throughout the region.

Criminal Expansion

The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.

Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, along with dozens of firearms.

Raid Preparation

The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a year-long investigation.

Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.

Larger Framework

Extensive security missions are not uncommon in Brazil before major international events in the country.

The international environmental meeting COP30 is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.