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A minimum of 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history.

Four security agents lost their lives during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. Over 80 suspects were detained.

Violent conflicts erupted when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.

The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Raid Aftermath

The slum neighborhoods adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.

Government representatives stated no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Resident Accounts

Locals have likened the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.

Roads remain closed throughout the region.

Gang Growth

The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.

Local law enforcement said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.

Operation Background

The combined action by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation.

Dozens of the suspects are thought to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city.

Wider Perspective

Extensive security missions are regular in Brazil prior to significant global gatherings in the country.

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