Cuiabá authorities uncover environmental crimes in illegal copper trade operation

Forensic experts from Politec identified environmental crimes during the ‘Via do Cobre’ integrated operation in the Novo Colorado neighborhood of Cuiabá. The operation, launched by the State Secretariat of Public Security (Sesp), targeted the illegal trade, theft, and recycling of copper cables and other metallic materials.

Authorities inspected three commercial and industrial establishments, resulting in their closure and the issuance of warnings to the owners. One proprietor was arrested for receiving stolen goods, tampering with vehicle identification, and electricity theft.

During inspections, experts discovered large quantities of copper and aluminum without proof of origin, evidence of plastic burning to extract copper, and oil leaking directly into the soil. Other violations included operating without environmental licenses, illegal power connections, and the possession of undocumented vehicle parts and plates from other states.