A minimum of 64 individuals were killed in a security raid targeting the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history.
Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 individuals were arrested.
Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with armed resistance, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, officials confirmed.
The International human rights organization expressed being "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".
The informal settlements near Rio's airport is seen as the central command of a major organised crime groups.
State officials said no less than 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Numerous individuals were hurt, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community members have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "battlefield" since the operation began.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Security forces stated in excess of 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were captured in the mission, along with numerous weapons.
The joint operation by civil and military police follows a extended probe.
Many of the individuals are considered members of a faction from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Extensive security missions are frequent in the country ahead of major international events in the country.
The United Nations climate conference the environmental summit is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in November.
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