A minimum of 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history.
Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. Over 80 people were arrested.
Violent conflicts broke out when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "horrified" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
The area of favelas adjacent to Rio's airport is regarded as the central command of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.
Government representatives stated no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".
Numerous individuals were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Residents have likened the hillside area - housing around 300,000 residents - to a "combat area" since the mission commenced.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
The criminal network has been growing their influence in the area, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.
Rio's police reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the operation, along with dozens of firearms.
The combined action by different law enforcement agencies follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Pará state who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of significant global gatherings in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit COP30 is taking place in the northern urban center in November.
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