🔗 Share this article A minimum of 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio's Largest Security Action on Organized Crime Locals described the region to a battlefield after the raid A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a law enforcement action targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's records. Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, local authorities said. Over 80 people were arrested. Around 2,500 law enforcement officers participated in the security action Violent conflicts erupted when around 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials said. The United Nations human rights body expressed being "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations". Operation Impact The informal settlements adjacent to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of a major organised crime groups. Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Many residents were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting. Resident Accounts Community members have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started. Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region. Organized Crime Spread The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and power in the informal settlements. Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the operation, together with multiple guns. Operation Background The combined action by various security forces comes after a extended probe. Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the city. Larger Framework Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in Brazil ahead of major international events in the nation. The international environmental meeting COP30 is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.