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A minimum of 64 civilians died in a police operation targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's past.

Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials reported. More than 80 suspects were taken into custody.

Intense confrontations commenced when approximately 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization countered with shooting, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.

The International human rights organization stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, urging "prompt and effective investigations".

Operation Impact

The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the headquarters of a major criminal organizations.

Government representatives said no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Numerous individuals were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Resident Accounts

Locals have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.

Access ways continue shut in the entire neighborhood.

Criminal Expansion

The Red Command group have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and power in the informal settlements.

Local law enforcement stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, together with multiple guns.

Operation Background

The coordinated mission by various security forces follows a twelve-month inquiry.

Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro.

Broader Context

Large-scale police operations are frequent in the country prior to major international events in the South American nation.

The United Nations climate conference COP30 is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.