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No less than 64 individuals lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history.

Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. More than 80 people were arrested.

Violent conflicts commenced when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.

The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Mission Consequences

The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.

Government representatives said at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".

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

Resident Accounts

Residents have likened the hillside area - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.

Transport routes stay blocked across the area.

Organized Crime Spread

The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities.

Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.

Mission Context

The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.

Dozens of the suspects are believed to be participants in an organization from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.

Wider Perspective

Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of important worldwide conferences in the country.

The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.