Brazilian prosecutors launch environmental and heritage investigations

The Public Prosecutor's Office in Piauí has launched an investigation into potential environmental crimes in Baixa Grande do Ribeiro. The inquiry, initiated by prosecutor Rodrigo Dias Saraiva, aims to investigate irregular deforestation and interventions in a Permanent Preservation Area (APP) along the Riacho da Volta. Initial evidence suggests the use of heavy machinery to suppress large native vegetation in an area attributed to Luiz da Rocha Quixabeira.

In a separate legal matter, the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office has filed a civil public action against the state of Mato Grosso and the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (Iphan). The lawsuit seeks to ensure better protection of archaeological heritage by requiring the state environmental agency (Sema/MT) to consult Iphan during environmental licensing processes whenever there is a possibility of impact, regardless of whether the archaeological sites are already officially registered. The action challenges current state regulations that limit such consultations, requesting a fine of R$ 1 million for any licenses issued without proper consultation.