Amazon illegal mining and organized crime

Illegal gold mining in the Amazon has become a sophisticated criminal enterprise, often referred to as ‘narcogarimpo’. This phenomenon involves the convergence of environmental crimes with drug, arms, and human trafficking, as well as money laundering and forced labor. While increased environmental oversight helped reduce irregular gold origins to approximately 8% by 2025, organized crime groups continue to dominate the logistics and distribution of the metal.

Criminal factions, including the PCC and Comando Vermelho, are reportedly reinvesting cocaine trafficking profits into illegal gold mining. The high international demand for gold, particularly in Europe, provides a lucrative asset for large-scale drug transactions. Trafficking routes are also evolving, with shipments being redirected through Amapá and French Guiana to reach European markets.

In the Amazonas region, specifically near Itapiranga and Silves, the presence of isolated indigenous groups remains a critical concern. Human rights organizations have highlighted the urgent need for state protection, as these communities remain vulnerable to violence and environmental degradation caused by encroaching illegal mining activities.