What's Happening with Illegal Mining in Brazil?
Until 2022, gold extracted illegally in Brazil was smuggled out of ports in Pará and São Paulo, from where it was shipped to markets like the United States and Europe. However, with increased surveillance and the fight against illegal mining under the Lula government, the practices of 'laundering' the metal have been changing. Criminals have adapted to the authorities' crackdown and started using neighboring countries in South America as intermediaries to 'launder' illegal gold.
Gold is transported by roads, aircraft, and clandestine routes to Venezuela, Guyana, and Suriname, and only then is it exported to other continents. This change in gold 'laundering' routes was reported by five investigators directly involved in operations to combat illegal mining, who spoke to Folha about the new strategies of the criminals.
Why Does This Matter?
The 'laundering' of illegal gold is not just an environmental problem, but also a social and economic one. The illegal extraction of gold causes significant damage to the environment, including the destruction of forests and the pollution of rivers. Furthermore, the 'laundering' of illegal gold also finances criminal activities and corrodes the country's formal economy.
The indigenous population is also affected by illegal mining. The Raposa Serra do Sol TI is one of the main examples. Miners migrated to the territory, and their presence deepened divisions within the indigenous communities. While one part defends the removal of invaders who entered the reserve in search of gold, another supports mineral exploration.
The Mechanism Behind Illegal Mining
Illegal mining is a complex problem that involves several stakeholders, including criminals, authorities, and local communities. The 'laundering' of illegal gold is a process that involves extraction, transportation, and sale of gold in illegal markets.
Criminals use clandestine routes and 'cabriteiras' to escape surveillance. 'Cabriteiras' are clandestine routes opened parallel to official roads, which allow crossing and exiting some federal roads to reach the destination.
Broader Context
Illegal mining is not a new problem in Brazil. However, the 'laundering' of illegal gold is a problem that has become increasingly complex and difficult to combat. The change in gold 'laundering' routes is an example of this.
Other countries in the region are also facing similar problems. Venezuela and Guyana, for example, have also been used as intermediaries to 'launder' illegal gold. This highlights the need for a regional approach to combat illegal mining and gold 'laundering'.
What's Next?
The combination of efforts by authorities, local communities, and civil society is crucial to combating illegal mining and gold 'laundering'. This includes the implementation of effective policies, surveillance, and education.
Furthermore, it is essential that countries in the region work together to combat illegal mining and gold 'laundering'. This may include cooperation in surveillance operations, information exchange, and the implementation of regional policies.
Conclusion
Illegal mining and gold 'laundering' are complex problems that require a multifaceted approach. The change in gold 'laundering' routes is an example of this. It is essential that authorities, local communities, and civil society work together to combat these problems and protect the environment and affected communities.
Source / Reference
Original URL: https://climainfo.org.br/2026/08/09/garimpo-ilegal-usa-venezuela-e-guiana-para-lavar-ouro-brasileiro/
Source Name: ClimaInfo