🔗 Share this article At least 64 Killed in Rio's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs Locals described the area to a battlefield after the mission A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a security raid against the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history. Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 suspects were taken into custody. Some 2,500 law enforcement officers were involved in Tuesday's operation Intense confrontations broke out when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The Red Command reacted using armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said. The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations". Raid Aftermath The slum neighborhoods close to the city's international airport is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful illegal networks. Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence. Community Response Community members have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the raid started. Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood. Organized Crime Spread The Red Command group has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and dominance over the slum communities. Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the operation, together with dozens of firearms. Operation Background The joint operation by civil and military police follows a twelve-month inquiry. Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro. Broader Context Large-scale police operations are regular in the country before important worldwide conferences in the country. The United Nations climate conference COP30 is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.