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At least 64 individuals died in a police operation against the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern districts - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's records.

Four police officers were among those killed during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 people were arrested.

Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 law enforcement officers initiated the operation on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization reacted using shooting, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.

The United Nations human rights body stated it felt "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Mission Consequences

The informal settlements close to Rio's airport is seen as the central command of among the nation's strongest organised crime groups.

Government representatives confirmed no less than 50 of the deceased were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers".

Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.

Community Response

Residents have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the operation began.

Transport routes stay blocked across the area.

Organized Crime Spread

The Red Command group have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and control of the hillside favelas.

Local law enforcement said more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were seized in the mission, in addition to multiple guns.

Mission Context

The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a extended probe.

Many of the individuals are considered affiliates of a group from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the city.

Larger Framework

Extensive security missions are regular in the South American nation ahead of important worldwide conferences in the nation.

The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the northern urban center in late autumn.