In an environmental operation named Operação Andada III, authorities in Pará state seized more than half a ton of caranguejo-uçá, a species of crab, that were illegally captured and found in bags. The operation took place in the Salgado Paraense region and was conducted by agents from the Instituto Chico Mendes (ICMBio) alongside the Military Police. Images released show over 3,000 crabs found alive, some of them still clutching the tops of the bags they were stored in. Fortunately, the officials released the living crabs back into the mangroves after the seizure.

The operation, launched over the weekend, coincided with the crabs being in a critical protection period, known as the third period of defeso, during which harvesting, transporting, or selling of these crabs is prohibited. The significance of this operation lies in its focus on enforcing environmental regulations and protecting local wildlife. It underlines ongoing initiatives to curb illegal fishing and wildlife trade, which pose threats to biodiversity in the region.

During the environmental inspection, the Military Police also identified and arrested a fugitive wanted by the law, whose specific charges remain unspecified. This aspect emphasizes the multifaceted nature of the operation, which was not only aimed at wildlife protection but also contributed to law enforcement efforts. As such environmental operations not only safeguard marine life but also uphold justice by enforcing laws against criminals hiding in these activities.