Brazilian Authorities Uncover Illegal Gold Mining Operations Deep in the Amazon
In a remote part of the Amazon rainforest, accessible only by helicopter, Brazilian authorities have unearthed a clandestine gold mining operation. This illegal venture involved an intricate network of subterranean tunnels constructed by alleged criminals.
The Brazilian Federal Police discovered both small and large mines reaching depths of up to 70 meters. These makeshift excavations were found in disrepair, characterized by damp wooden walls and narrow, suffocating passageways. The miners accessed these shafts using ropes attached to cranes.
Explosives specialist André Toledo explained to Globo that this location within Maués municipality poses significant risks, stating it’s “hazardous” and deteriorating over time.
Toledo remarked on the inherent dangers: “The tunnel’s potential for collapse is alarming. There’s a risk that ceilings may cave in, which could entrap or even kill those working inside.” He noted that geologic instability could be contributing to imminent dangers within these tunnels due to gaps unable to support their weight over time.
Footage showed authorities detonating explosives at the mines, resulting in dramatic bursts of fireball explosions.
Miners extracted soil from their excavations into basins, which are then hoisted upward. Hereafter, they crush this material and blend it with cyanide for gold extraction processes.
Mr. Toledo added: “Underground conditions are perilous due to serious air contamination from toxic gases like CO2. Miners utilize air pumps connected via piping as a lifeline for ventilation.”
Impact on Local Communities and Environment
The ownership behind these illicit operations remains undetermined; however, this region has become synonymous with small-scale gold mining as prices surged since 2010.
A Devastating Consequence![]()
Non-governmental organization Amazon Aid highlights numerous grave social and environmental repercussions stemming from such mining activities—escalated deforestation rates, mercury contamination, rising criminal activities as well as violations against human rights leading to indigenous community displacement.
The organization reports that most artisanal miners operating across the Amazon are engaged in illegal practices within protected territories where resource extraction is expressly forbidden.
Other links confirm organized crime linked directly with illicit mining practices; reports indicate escalating violence associated with trade routes involving smuggled goods.
