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At least 64 civilians lost their lives in a police operation against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.

Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, local authorities said. Over 80 individuals were detained.

Intense confrontations broke out when about 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command responded with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, police representatives said.

The United Nations human rights body said it was "appalled" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Mission Consequences

The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is seen as the headquarters of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.

Government representatives confirmed at least 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".

Dozens of people were injured, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Local Reaction

Residents have described the elevated neighborhood - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.

Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.

Gang Growth

The criminal network have been expanding their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.

Rio's police reported over 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the raid, together with dozens of firearms.

Operation Background

The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies comes after a year-long investigation.

Dozens of the suspects are thought to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.

Broader Context

Extensive security missions are regular in the country prior to important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.

The UN climate summit the environmental summit is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.