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A minimum of 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the region's history.

Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives reported. In excess of 80 people were detained.

Violent conflicts erupted when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and using drone-dropped explosives, authorities said.

The United Nations human rights body expressed being "shocked" by the security action, demanding "immediate and thorough inquiries".

Operation Impact

The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of a major criminal organizations.

Local authorities stated no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

Dozens of people were wounded, including civilians caught in the crossfire.

Local Reaction

Locals have described the mountainous region - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the operation began.

Access ways continue shut throughout the region.

Gang Growth

The Red Command group has been growing their territory across the Rio state, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.

Local law enforcement said over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the operation, together with dozens of firearms.

Operation Background

The coordinated mission by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.

Many of the individuals are believed to be participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in the metropolitan area.

Larger Framework

Extensive security missions are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the South American nation.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in November.