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At least 64 individuals died in a police operation cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.

Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody.

Violent conflicts erupted when around 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives confirmed.

The International human rights organization expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, urging "prompt and effective investigations".

Operation Impact

The slum neighborhoods near the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks.

State officials said no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".

Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Local Reaction

Community members have described the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.

Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.

Organized Crime Spread

The criminal network has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.

Rio's police said more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms.

Raid Preparation

The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.

Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.

Larger Framework

Extensive security missions are frequent in the South American nation before major international events in the nation.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in November.