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A minimum of 64 people were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.

Four law enforcement personnel were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.

Fierce clashes commenced when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials stated.

The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "prompt and effective investigations".

Operation Impact

The area of favelas adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the central command of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.

State officials said at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Many residents were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Local Reaction

Residents have compared the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.

Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.

Organized Crime Spread

The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.

Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the operation, together with multiple guns.

Operation Background

The combined action by various security forces was preceded by a extended probe.

Many of the individuals are believed to be members of a faction from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the city.

Wider Perspective

Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the country prior to major international events in the South American nation.

The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.