đź”— Share this article At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Police Raid on Organized Crime Locals compared the region to a war zone after the operation No less than 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history. Four security agents lost their lives during the police action in the AlemĂŁo and Penha districts, local authorities reported. More than 80 suspects were detained. Some 2,500 law enforcement officers were involved in Tuesday's operation Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 police forces moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with gunfire, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities stated. The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries". Mission Consequences The area of favelas adjacent to the city's international airport is seen as the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks. Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Numerous individuals were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Community Response Residents have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started. Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region. Gang Growth The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements. Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were seized in the raid, along with multiple guns. Mission Context The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe. Dozens of the suspects are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the city. Wider Perspective Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the country. The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.