At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Organized Crime

At least 64 individuals were killed in a security raid cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records.

Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. Over 80 suspects were detained.

Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with gunfire, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities confirmed.

The International human rights organization expressed being "horrified" by the security action, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Operation Impact

The informal settlements close to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of a major illegal networks.

Local authorities said no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Resident Accounts

Residents have likened the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the raid started.

Roads remain closed throughout the region.

Gang Growth

The criminal network has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.

Security forces said over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the operation, in addition to numerous weapons.

Mission Context

The combined action by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.

Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.

Broader Context

Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the country.

The UN climate summit the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in November.