Querétaro authorities investigate mercury trafficking discovery

Mexican authorities have launched an investigation following the seizure of 1.2 liters of mercury found in a vehicle in the state of Querétaro. The discovery occurred on the Puerto de los Velázquez-San Gaspar highway in the municipality of Pinal de Amoles during a check by state police.

One individual was detained after authorities found two containers, each holding 600 milliliters of the toxic substance. The Federal Attorney General's Office (FGR) has opened an investigation into potential crimes against the environment and environmental management. Simultaneously, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) has filed a formal complaint to determine the origin and intended destination of the mercury.

Under Article 414 of the Federal Penal Code, illegal activities involving dangerous substances that damage ecosystems or natural resources can result in one to nine years of imprisonment and economic fines. Querétaro is noted as a significant production hub for mercury in Mexico, a country that the United Nations Environment Programme identifies as the world's second-largest producer of the metal.