Brazil Imposes R$500 Million Loss on Illegal Mining in Yanomami Indigenous Territory
Brazil's government has imposed a R$500 million loss on illegal mining in Yanomami Indigenous Land through extensive enforcement actions to restore Indigenous autonomy and protect the Amazon.
- • Brazil has caused R$500 million in losses to illegal mining on Yanomami land since March 2024.
- • Over 7,400 integrated actions have been conducted, including inspection of 504 airstrips and embargo of 47 areas.
- • Confiscations include 138.8 kg of gold and 229.5 kg of mercury, with fines totaling R$11.9 million.
- • Efforts aim to restore Yanomami autonomy and ensure health and security services.
- • Government actions will continue with a permanent plan beyond current operations.
Key details
The Brazilian government has inflicted a significant financial blow to illegal mining operations in the Yanomami Indigenous Land, with estimated damages totaling R$500 million. Since March 2024, more than 7,400 coordinated actions have targeted illegal activities, achieving the inspection of 504 clandestine airstrips and embargoing 47 mining areas. The operation, led by the Government House in Roraima, includes multifaceted inspections by land, air, and river, alongside nighttime incursions by the Armed Forces to dismantle the mining infrastructure.
This campaign has not only confiscated 138.8 kg of gold, 229.5 kg of mercury, and various machinery and weapons but has also imposed fines exceeding R$11.9 million. According to Nilton Tubino, director of the Government House, these financial measures aim to "suffocate the criminal activity" and protect the health, dignity, and culture of the Yanomami communities, which have suffered from mercury contamination and disruption of traditional lifestyles. The government emphasizes restoring Yanomami autonomy and ensuring access to healthcare and security as key objectives.
These protective actions reaffirm Brazil's sovereignty over the Amazon region and will continue beyond the current operation (ADPF 709) through a permanent maintenance plan focused on prevention and humanitarian efforts. This ongoing commitment highlights the Brazilian authorities' determination to safeguard Indigenous peoples and preserve the Amazon's ecological and cultural heritage.