š Share this article A minimum of 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs Community members likened the neighborhood to a battlefield after the mission At least 64 people were killed in a security raid targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the biggest and most lethal operation in the region's history. Four security agents were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of AlemĆ£o and Penha, local authorities reported. Over 80 suspects were arrested. Around 2,500 security personnel participated in the security action Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 security personnel moved in on Tuesday early hours. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed. The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the security action, urging "prompt and effective investigations". Operation Impact The informal settlements close to the aerial transportation hub is seen as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations. Local authorities said no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Many residents were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence. Resident Accounts Locals have described the elevated neighborhood - housing around 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started. Roads remain closed across the area. Criminal Expansion The Comando Vermelho organization has been growing their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities. Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the mission, along with dozens of firearms. Mission Context The coordinated mission by different law enforcement agencies comes after a twelve-month inquiry. Numerous alleged criminals are believed to be members of a faction from the ParĆ” state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro. Wider Perspective Large-scale police operations are frequent in Brazil before major international events in the nation. The UN climate summit the environmental summit is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.