On Friday, the Brazilian Federal Police (PF) and the National Indian Foundation (Funai) conducted a significant crackdown on illegal gold mining operations in the Kayapó Indigenous Land, located in the municipality of Ourilândia do Norte in southern Pará. The operation led to the discovery and destruction of two operational dredges on the bed of the Fresco River, alongside the dismantling of a camp, motors, and a hydraulic excavator, highlighting the ongoing fight against illegal resource exploitation in the area.

During this operation, law enforcement seized several items including mobile phones and a 9mm firearm, with the individuals responsible for these illegal activities being identified by the PF. This action is part of the fourth phase of Operation Rio Fresco, aimed specifically at curbing the illegal mineral resource extraction along the riverbanks, which poses a threat not only to the environment but also to indigenous communities.

The Federal Police announced that investigations are ongoing to identify the financiers behind these illegal mining operations, who may face charges related to environmental crimes and the usurpation of national resources. This operation underscores the Brazilian government's commitment to protecting indigenous lands and combating environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities.