AMAZONAS, BRAZIL - A joint operation conducted by the Harpia Joint Command disabled 50 dredges used in illegal mining activities in the Upper Solimões region, in the Brazilian state of Amazonas. According to the Armed Forces, in the days leading up to the operation, the presence of troops forced the suspension of 117 barges operating irregularly in the Japurá area. During the planning phase, dozens of dredges were also identified in Jutaí.
The operation was carried out in coordination with the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA), the Federal Police, and the Amazonas State Military Police. Army personnel also took part, including a jungle platoon from the 17th Jungle Infantry Battalion.
According to the commander of the Riverine Operations Force, the action reinforces the State’s presence in the Amazon region.
“The neutralization of these dredges represents far more than an operational result. It is a concrete demonstration that the Brazilian State is present in the far reaches of the Amazon, protecting our rivers, our forest and, above all, riverine communities and Indigenous peoples,” he said.