đź”— Share this article At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Organized Crime Locals described the neighborhood to a war zone after the raid A minimum of 64 individuals died in a law enforcement action against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's records. Four security agents were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of AlemĂŁo and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 individuals were taken into custody. Some 2,500 law enforcement officers participated in the police raid Fierce clashes broke out when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives said. The United Nations human rights body expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries". Raid Aftermath The informal settlements adjacent to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups. Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Numerous individuals were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Community Response Residents have likened the hillside area - home to about 300,000 people - to a "war zone" since the operation began. Access ways continue shut throughout the region. Criminal Expansion 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 more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, together with dozens of firearms. Operation Background The combined action by different law enforcement agencies follows a extended probe. Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro. Wider Perspective Large-scale police operations are regular in Brazil prior to important worldwide conferences in the South American nation. The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.