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At least 64 people lost their lives in a security raid cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's past.

Four security agents were among those killed during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials said. In excess of 80 individuals were taken into custody.

Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, burning barricades and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, officials confirmed.

The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "horrified" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Operation Impact

The informal settlements adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.

Government representatives said at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Dozens of people were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Community Response

Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the operation began.

Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.

Gang Growth

The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their control throughout the region, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.

Rio's police stated over 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the raid, in addition to multiple guns.

Mission Context

The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry.

Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.

Larger Framework

Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the country.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.