MANAUS, BRAZIL – Operating since 2020, the Arpão River Bases, coordinated by the Amazonas Public Security Secretariat (SSP-AM), have assisted the Military Police and Civil Police in the seizure of more than 197 tons of drugs. In addition to strengthening the fight against drug trafficking and environmental crimes, the river units have increased security for communities along the Solimões, Negro and Amazon rivers.

The bases operate 24 hours a day and are staffed by the Amazonas Military Police, Civil Police, Fire Department, Forensic Police, National Force and the Brazilian Navy, conducting inspections on all types of vessels.

Considered a unique model for combating crime on rivers, the system has had a direct impact in recent years on the lives of residents in municipalities where the units are deployed, particularly in rural communities.

Beyond intensifying anti-drug efforts, the river bases have also strengthened actions against environmental crimes and robberies, while increasing the volume of seizures involving vessels used by organized crime, as well as weapons, ammunition and illicit money.

Amazon Agency