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A minimum of 64 people were killed in a security raid against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's history.

Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives said. More than 80 suspects were arrested.

Intense confrontations erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials stated.

The International human rights organization said it was "shocked" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Operation Impact

The area of favelas close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the main base of a major criminal organizations.

Government representatives stated at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Community Response

Community members have likened the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started.

Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.

Criminal Expansion

The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.

Security forces reported over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.

Operation Background

The combined action by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry.

Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.

Larger Framework

Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil before important worldwide conferences in the country.

The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.