Introduction
A recent investigation by InfoAmazonia has revealed suspicions of gold laundering in artisanal mining areas in the Tapajós River basin, which spans parts of the states of Mato Grosso and Pará. The conclusion is alarming: nearly half of the mines authorized by the National Mining Agency (ANM) in the region may be serving as a front for the laundering of gold extracted illegally in protected areas and indigenous lands.
The Problem of Illegal Mining
Between 2022 and 2026, 263 of the 540 licensed mines in the Tapajós basin declared gold sales incompatible with their actual activity, according to the investigation. This suggests that these mines may be involved in illegal activities, such as extracting gold in protected areas or indigenous lands, and then using legal permits to cover up the origin of the gold and insert it into the formal market.
Satellite Images and Mining Activity
Satellite images analyzed by InfoAmazonia indicate that most mining occurs outside authorized areas, including in territories where the activity is prohibited or restricted. About 70% of the detected mining activity appears within a 10-kilometer radius of licensed locations. This pattern reinforces the suspicion that legal permits are being used to cover up the origin of illegal gold.
Mercenary Contamination and Environmental Impact
The investigation's conclusions also dialogue with reports of mercury contamination in the Tapajós, where indigenous and riverine communities depend on the rivers for water, food, and transportation. Although the use of mercury is prohibited in Brazil, the substance remains common in both illegal mining and part of authorized operations, representing a serious risk to human health and the environment.
Distortions in the Use of Artisanal Mining Permits (PLGs)
The investigation points to distortions in the use of Artisanal Mining Permits (PLGs), licenses created to enable artisanal and low-impact mining. However, these authorizations have been used by larger operations, with heavy equipment, dredging, and illegal use of mercury — characteristics more akin to industrial mining, which contradicts the original purpose of the PLGs.
Conclusion
InfoAmazonia's investigation brings to light a serious and complex problem that involves not only gold laundering but also environmental contamination and impact on local communities. It is essential that competent authorities take effective measures to combat these illegal practices and ensure that mining operations are carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Source / Reference
This article was originally published on Mongabay.