Mato Grosso authorities investigate illegal turtle poaching ring

Authorities are investigating a group suspected of the systematic illegal hunting, killing, and commercialization of turtles and other wildlife in the Rio das Mortes region of eastern Mato Grosso, Brazil.

The activities targeted the Quelônios do Araguaia Wildlife Refuge, a conservation unit designed to protect turtle species. Investigations suggest a local farmer and cosmetics entrepreneur may be the leader of the scheme, involving his wife and employees. The poaching is particularly critical during the September-October dry season, when Amazon turtles migrate to river beaches to spawn, leaving them vulnerable.

As part of ‘Operação Iurará’, eight search and seizure warrants were executed on Wednesday. The affected area is a vital environmental corridor for species including the manatee, maned wolf, and pink river dolphin.