August federal raids at Yanomami lands result in 38 arrests

In August, federal security forces made noteworthy headway against illegal mining at Yanomami Indigenous Land. According to the Government House, which oversees the operations, 38 arrests were made at the indigenous territory during the month.

Two illegal gold miners were arrested in the Jeremias region between August 22 and 26, 2024. In addition to the arrests, 11 mining engines and a camp were destroyed. Two further arrests were made in the Couto Magalhães River area, which has been identified as a hub for illegal mining operations. The federal teams also disabled generators, engines, and pumps and seized cell phones and documents related to illicit mineral extraction.

A FUNAI agent destroys a camp used by illegal gold miners - Photo: Bruno Mancinelle/Government House

In the Mucajaí River region, another critical battleground, 18 gallons of diesel fuel — the lifeblood of illegal mining — were confiscated. Additionally, engines, generators, and other equipment were seized. Furthermore, six illegal gold miners in the Xitei region voluntarily surrendered after attempts to evade federal teams.

On August 24, 2024, three illegal gold miners were arrested following the dismantling of their unauthorized encampments and the seizure of their machinery at the Maracá Ecological Station. The detainees were transported to the Federal Police in Boa Vista, where infraction notices and reports of seizure and destruction were formally issued.

OVERVIEW - The August operational summary shows notable figures: 12,560 liters of diesel fuel and 871 kg of supplies were rendered unusable. Additionally, 64 camps and 60 structures used by illegal gold miners were destroyed. Security forces disabled four barges, three all-terrain vehicles/ATVs, 20 Starlink antennas, and 70 generators, significantly disrupting the invaders' logistics.

The seizure included 1,740 kg of supplies, 104,649 kg of mercury, 516 rounds of ammunition, and 13 firearms. Furthermore, 25,700 kg of cassiterite, 550 liters of gasoline, 18 grams of gold, and 177 engines were confiscated and subsequently destroyed. Two aircraft were also rendered unserviceable this month.

Illegal gold miners detained on Yanomami Indigenous Land - Photo: Bruno Mancinelle/Government House

GOVERNMENT HOUSE - The Government House has conducted 1,479 operations, including 324 in August alone. Security forces continue to inspect hidden airstrips and monitor air routes for transporting materials and miners in the region. Destruction of airstrips and seizure of logistical materials are part of the Federal Government's ongoing effort to dismantle the logistical network supporting illegal mining.