No less than 64 civilians died in a security raid targeting the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's history.
Four security agents lost their lives during the security mission in the Alemão and Penha districts, government representatives stated. In excess of 80 people were arrested.
Intense confrontations broke out when around 2,500 security personnel initiated the operation on the morning of the operation. The Comando Vermelho responded with gunfire, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, authorities confirmed.
The International human rights organization said it was "horrified" by the security action, demanding "prompt and effective investigations".
The area of favelas adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is considered to be the central command of a major illegal networks.
Local authorities confirmed a minimum of 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were injured, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community members have compared the hillside area - home to about 300,000 residents - to a "battlefield" since the mission commenced.
Roads remain closed across the area.
The criminal network have been expanding their control throughout the region, expanding narcotics distribution networks and power in the informal settlements.
Local law enforcement stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were seized in the operation, together with dozens of firearms.
The coordinated mission by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Dozens of the suspects are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro.
Large-scale police operations are regular in the South American nation prior to important worldwide conferences in the country.
The UN climate summit the environmental summit is scheduled in the northern city of Belem in the eleventh month.
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Ashley Carter
Ashley Carter
Ashley Carter