Task force targets illegal mining network and environmental crimes in Pará
19 de August de 2024
Fabyo Cruz – From Cenarium
BELÉM (PA) – A task force made up of the Federal Police (PF), the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) and the National Force carried out an operation to combat illegal mining and deforestation in the region of Itaituba (PA), 888 kilometers from Belém. The two-week operation was carried out by federal agents between July 24 and August 9.
The operation against illegal activities in the Amazon resulted in the seizure and destruction of various pieces of equipment and materials used to commit these environmental crimes. Among the equipment seized and rendered useless during the operation were 50 stationary engines, 24 hydraulic excavators (known as PCs), 15 dredges and a tractor. Also seized were a truck, seven motorcycles, three boats, 7,500 liters of fuel, four firearms and 70 rounds of ammunition.
In addition, structures used to support illegal activities, such as camps and warehouses, were also destroyed. The action resulted in several infraction notices being issued. The PF estimates that the damage caused to criminal groups by the destruction of equipment and materials exceeds R$ 14 million.
The joint actions of the PF, ICMBio and the National Force, according to the institution itself, represent an important step forward in the fight against illegal mining and in protecting the environment in western Pará. This operation “highlights the importance of cooperation between different bodies and institutions in preserving the Amazon and tackling the environmental challenges facing Brazil”, the agency said in a statement.