🔗 Share this article At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Security Action on Organized Crime Community members compared the area to a battlefield after the mission A minimum of 64 people lost their lives in a law enforcement action cracking down on the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history. Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. More than 80 individuals were detained. Approximately 2,500 security personnel participated in the security action Fierce clashes erupted when approximately 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday morning. The Red Command countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed. The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "appalled" by the security action, calling for "swift and comprehensive examinations". Mission Consequences The slum neighborhoods near Rio's airport is considered to be the headquarters of a major criminal organizations. Government representatives stated no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals". Many residents were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Local Reaction Community members have likened the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced. Transport routes stay blocked across the area. Gang Growth The Red Command group has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas. Local law enforcement reported more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were captured in the mission, in addition to dozens of firearms. Operation Background The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies follows a extended probe. Dozens of the suspects are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area. Broader Context Extensive security missions are regular in the country ahead of major international events in the country. The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.