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At least 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's records.

Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. Over 80 people were arrested.

Violent conflicts broke out when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities stated.

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

Mission Consequences

The area of favelas near Rio's airport is regarded as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest criminal organizations.

Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".

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

Community Response

Community members have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.

Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.

Organized Crime Spread

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

Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the raid, together with multiple guns.

Mission Context

The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe.

Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the city.

Wider Perspective

Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil ahead of significant global gatherings in the country.

The UN climate summit COP30 is taking place in the northern city of Belem in late autumn.