đź”— Share this article At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Gangs Locals described the neighborhood to a war zone after the raid No less than 64 civilians were killed in a security raid against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the area's history. Four police officers were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the neighborhoods of AlemĂŁo and Penha, government representatives stated. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody. Approximately 2,500 police forces took part in the police raid Violent conflicts commenced when approximately 2,500 police forces entered the area on the morning of the operation. The Red Command responded with shooting, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated. The UN Human Rights Office expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, urging "swift and comprehensive examinations". Raid Aftermath The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the headquarters of a major illegal networks. State officials said at least 50 of the fatalities were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting. Local Reaction Residents have described the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 residents - to a "war zone" since the raid started. Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood. Criminal Expansion The Red Command group has been increasing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas. Rio's police stated more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the operation, together with dozens of firearms. Raid Preparation The joint operation by civil and military police follows a extended probe. Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area. Larger Framework Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the nation. The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern urban center in November.