Families of the dead decried what they described as executions by police, while the state government hailed a successful operation against a powerful gang.

The violent raids have sparked intense gun battles, with gangs deploying drones against cops in retaliation. At least four cops have also been killed in the unprecedented violence. The body of a 19-year-old alleged gangbanger was found missing a head on Tuesday after the police stormed the Penha district of Rio, according to Brazilian media.