Federal Police operation tackles illegal gold mining at Madeira river; mayors support criminals

To dismantle the “raft wall” of over 600 rafts, formed by illegal gold diggers who were advancing on Madeira River, in the region of Autazes, Amazonas State, the Federal Police and IBAMA launched operation Uiara, with support from the Army. More than 130 boats were burnt by the police and, according to O Globo, and three people were arrested.

The mayors of the Amazonian municipalities of Autazes and Borba united to demand intervention by the state representatives to halt the destruction of the ferries. “I have already talked to several congressmen and senators who represent Amazonas. And through this I am sure that we will be able to solve this situation. If we can reverse a federal order, all of you and we will be victorious,” said the mayor of Borba, Simão Peixoto, to dozens of miners gathered in the town square, where they took shelter after fleeing the operation.