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At least 64 civilians were killed in a law enforcement action targeting the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's history.

Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the communities of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. More than 80 suspects were taken into custody.

Fierce clashes commenced when around 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives said.

The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the police operation, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Operation Impact

The area of favelas close to Rio's airport is seen as the main base of among the nation's strongest illegal networks.

State officials confirmed no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Many residents were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Community Response

Locals have compared the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the operation began.

Transport routes stay blocked throughout the region.

Criminal Expansion

The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.

Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were captured in the raid, in addition to dozens of firearms.

Raid Preparation

The combined action by various security forces was preceded by a extended probe.

Many of the individuals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are presently concealed in the metropolitan area.

Broader Context

Extensive security missions are frequent in the country before significant global gatherings in the South American nation.

The UN climate summit the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.