🔗 Share this article No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime Community members described the area to a combat area after the operation At least 64 civilians died in a security raid cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's records. Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. In excess of 80 suspects were arrested. Around 2,500 police forces were involved in the police raid Violent conflicts erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives confirmed. The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries". Mission Consequences The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks. Government representatives confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting. Community Response Locals have likened the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the raid started. Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region. Criminal Expansion The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities. Security forces reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms. Raid Preparation The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a extended probe. Numerous alleged criminals are considered members of a faction from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro. Broader Context Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the South American nation. The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in November.