(MENAFN) A large-scale police operation in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday resulted in at least 64 fatalities, according to reports citing state security officials. Among those killed, around 60 are believed to be suspected criminals, while two civil police officers and two military officers also lost their lives.

Rio de Janeiro Governor Claudio Castro warned that the death toll could rise as the operation remains ongoing. Online videos reportedly show multiple fires in the raid area, accompanied by the sounds of gunfire.

Authorities stated that the operation targeted the “territorial expansion” of the Comando Vermelho criminal group. The mission had been planned for more than a year and involved over 2,500 military and civilian police personnel.

So far, at least 81 individuals have been arrested, including two suspects who were shot and are currently being treated at Penha Hospital. The operation’s scale—with roughly 2,500 officers deployed—makes it the deadliest raid in Rio de Janeiro’s history.

Police in Rio de Janeiro frequently conduct operations in favelas as part of their ongoing fight against organized crime, but this particular raid stands out for its unprecedented casualties.

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