Federal Prosecutor seeks halt to mining in Betim over indigenous impact

The Federal Public Ministry (MPF) has filed a civil public action seeking an immediate injunction to halt mining activities and the use of explosives by Verdebrita Beneficiamento e Comércio de Minérios Ltda. in Betim, Brazil.

The legal action aims to protect the rights of the Katurãma and Ilha Grande indigenous villages, belonging to the Pataxó and Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãe peoples. The MPF alleges that mining operations cause soil tremors, intense noise, and structural damage to indigenous homes. Additionally, the activity reportedly generates atmospheric dust and poses safety risks due to flying rocks.

The mining site is located on a 34.58-hectare property in the Bandeirinhas neighborhood. According to the MPF, approximately 93% of the area was originally classified as an environmental interest zone near the Sarzedo Stream. During the licensing process, the project's scale was increased from Class 1 to Class 3, raising estimated annual production from 30,000 to 200,000 tons of crushed stone.