09/11/2023 19:15, updated 11/09/2023 19:15
A joint operation by the Federal Police (PF) and the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama) against illegal mining destroyed 26 dredgers, eight boats, four tugboats and 42,500 liters of diesel. The action took place in Vale do Javari, the second largest indigenous land in the country, located in Amazonas.
During Operation Xapiri, federal agents also seized nine Starlink antennas and 3.2 kg of mercury. Starlink belongs to Space and offers low-cost, high-performance internet to more remote regions, such as indigenous lands. Furthermore, it is often used by illegal miners.
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The operation focused on the Jandiatuba, Boia, Jutaí, Igarapé Preto and Igarapé do Mutum rivers.
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According to the PF, the 26 destroyed dredgers were valued at approximately R$5 million. The agents estimate that at least 1 kg of gold was removed from the region per month.
The boats and tugs that were also destroyed were used to support the work of miners.
The PF highlights that the spread of illegal mining threatens the lives of the indigenous peoples of Vale do Javari. In times of drought, communities move closer to rivers in search of water and food, which increases the likelihood of contact with criminals.
