🔗 Share this article At least 64 Dead in Rio's Biggest Police Raid on Criminal Groups Residents compared the region to a war zone after the raid No less than 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history. Four security agents were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials stated. Over 80 people were arrested. Some 2,500 security personnel were involved in the police raid Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives confirmed. The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries". Raid Aftermath The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest illegal networks. State officials stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders". Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Community Response Locals have compared the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the raid started. Access ways continue shut across the area. Organized Crime Spread The Red Command group have been expanding their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities. Local law enforcement stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the mission, together with dozens of firearms. Operation Background The combined action by various security forces follows a extended probe. Dozens of the suspects are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro. Larger Framework Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the country prior to major international events in the nation. The international environmental meeting the environmental summit is set to occur in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.