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A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's history.

Four security agents lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities reported. More than 80 suspects were detained.

Intense confrontations erupted when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.

The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Raid Aftermath

The informal settlements near the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.

Government representatives stated at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Many residents were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Community Response

Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.

Roads remain closed throughout the region.

Organized Crime Spread

The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and control of the hillside favelas.

Local law enforcement said in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, in addition to multiple guns.

Operation Background

The combined action by different law enforcement agencies follows a extended probe.

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

Broader Context

Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the nation.

The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in the eleventh month.