🔗 Share this article At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Organized Crime Residents likened the region to a war zone after the mission A minimum of 64 individuals lost their lives in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's records. Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities reported. In excess of 80 individuals were detained. Some 2,500 law enforcement officers were involved in the police raid Violent conflicts broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization reacted using armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials stated. The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the security action, demanding "prompt and effective investigations". Operation Impact The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of a major illegal networks. State officials said at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Dozens of people were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Resident Accounts Residents have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced. Access ways continue shut throughout the region. Criminal Expansion The Red Command group has been growing their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities. Local law enforcement stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, in addition to numerous weapons. Mission Context The joint operation by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry. Dozens of the suspects are thought to be members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the city. Broader Context Major law enforcement actions are frequent in Brazil prior to significant global gatherings in the South American nation. The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.