🔗 Share this article At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Organized Crime Community members likened the region to a combat area after the operation No less than 64 individuals died in a security raid against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's past. Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities stated. More than 80 individuals were detained. Around 2,500 law enforcement officers were involved in the security action Violent conflicts commenced when about 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command responded with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, officials said. The UN Human Rights Office said it was "shocked" by the police operation, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries". Operation Impact The area of favelas near the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups. Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of those killed were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Many residents were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Community Response Community members have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the operation began. Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood. Gang Growth The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities. Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the operation, along with multiple guns. Operation Background The joint operation by civil and military police follows a year-long investigation. Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in the city. Wider Perspective Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil before significant global gatherings in the nation. The UN climate summit COP30 is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in November.