Notícias
YANOMAMI INDIGENOUS LANDS
In June, Brazilian government conducts 226 operations against illegal mining at Yanomami Indigenous Lands
Army soldiers patrol Yanomami Lands. Image: Bruno Mancinelle
In operations coordinated by the Government House throughout June, the Brazilian Federal Government intensified the fight against illegal mining in Yanomami Indigenous Lands. The operations made significant progress in protecting this indigenous territory: 226 operations were launched in June alone and led to the seizure and destruction of equipment used by garimpeiros (illegal miners).
Results
The June operations resulted in the destruction of a great deal of the materials and equipment that had been used by illegal miners.
Altogether, the operations put an end to 6,159 liters of diesel oil; 3,000 kg of cassiterite; and 11 engines. Three helicopters—including a Bell 206 L4—were seized, as well as a quad bike, two cell phones and a clandestine landing strip. The operations also dismantled five encampments, one of which was equipped with a kitchen and three freezers, as well as two Starlink antennas and a boat.
These actions put a stop to criminal activity and significantly reduced illegal miners’ capacity to operate in the region.
The River Patrol Vessel "Amapá" carried out river naval patrols at the mouth of the Catrimani River, guaranteeing the safety of the Yanomami who suffer from illegal mining in the region.
Medical and dental assistance
A total 9,683 medical and dental procedures were carried out in the area of the lower Rio Branco, benefiting 675 people. This effort is part of a strategy to support Yanomami communities affected by illegal mining.
Government House Assessment
The Government House celebrated a 73% drop in mining alerts in the region, produced by advanced technology based on satellite images, which allow constant and precise surveillance of vulnerable areas.
Compared to the same period last year, the data show significant improvement, reflecting the effectiveness of federal interdiction efforts.
Bases to Support Operations
In June, the Armed Forces built a number of bases to support operations against illegal mining in in the Pakilapí and Kayanaú communities. They have been essential for giving logistical support to the operations, facilitating the continuous presence of security forces in the region and providing a strategic point for inspection and repression opreations. The bases also provide the necessary infrastructure to carry out operations, ensuring that agents can act more efficiently and safely.
Monitoring Tools
Monitoring illegal mining in Roraima has been improved using various technological tools. High-resolution satellite images allow the identification of areas of deforestation and mining activity, providing a detailed view of the terrain and clandestine operations. Additionally, the integration of intelligence data and the use of geospatial analysis software help plan and execute operations more efficiently.
Impact of Actions
The expressive results of the June operations, compared to the same period last year, show a clear downward trend in illegal mining activities. The Government House believes that maintaining and intensifying these actions will reinforce this trend, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for the Yanomami Indigenous Lands.
Commitment to the Protection of the Yanomami
The Federal Government is committed to protecting the rights of the Yanomami, ensuring that similar actions will continue as long as there are threats to these communities. Preserving the Yanomami culture and way of life is a priority and the government is determined to pursue public policies that favor the sustainable development and social inclusion of this population.
The actions against illegal mining carried out in June represent an important milestone in the fight to preserve the Yanomami Indigenous Lands. The significant reduction in mining alerts and the results obtained so far show the success of these strategies.
The Federal Government, with the support of its various agencies, will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the Yanomami can live in peace and security on their lands.