BELÉM, BRAZIL - Brazil’s Federal Police (PF), with support from the Federal Highway Police (PRF), launched Operation Gold Route on June 8 to combat illegal mining activities in the municipality of Novo Progresso, in southwestern Pará state, in the Brazilian Amazon. Investigators believe the site under inspection may have been responsible for the clandestine extraction of approximately 80 kilograms (176 pounds) of gold over the past three years.

During the operation, authorities seized three hydraulic excavators and a pickup truck, all allegedly used to support the illegal activity. No arrests were made.

Inspectors also identified evidence of mining activities within a permanent preservation area and a legal reserve, increasing the environmental impact associated with the operation. According to the Federal Police, those involved may face charges related to the unlawful exploitation of federal assets, illegal extraction of mineral resources and environmental damage.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify all individuals involved in the scheme, as well as the recipients of the extracted mineral.

Amazon Agency