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At least 64 civilians died in a law enforcement action cracking down on the Red Command gang in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the biggest and most lethal operation in the area's past.

Four police officers were included in the fatalities during the police action in the neighborhoods of Alemão and Penha, government representatives said. More than 80 suspects were taken into custody.

Fierce clashes erupted when about 2,500 police forces entered the area on Tuesday morning. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, setting fire to barriers and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives confirmed.

The International human rights organization stated it felt "appalled" by the police operation, demanding "swift and comprehensive examinations".

Raid Aftermath

The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the main base of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.

Local authorities stated a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".

Many residents were hurt, including innocent bystanders trapped in shooting.

Resident Accounts

Locals have compared the mountainous region - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the operation began.

Roads remain closed across the area.

Criminal Expansion

The criminal network has been growing their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.

Rio's police reported more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the raid, along with dozens of firearms.

Raid Preparation

The joint operation by different law enforcement agencies was preceded by a year-long investigation.

Many of the individuals are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in the metropolitan area.

Larger Framework

Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the South American nation ahead of major international events in the nation.

The international environmental meeting the climate conference is taking place in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.