Brazil corruption and illegal mining investigations

Brazil is conducting various judicial and investigative actions targeting corruption and environmental crimes. In the energy sector, the Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) fined former Petrobras international director Nestor Cerveró R$ 16.1 million for abuse of power and breach of loyalty regarding the 2006 acquisition of the Pasadena refinery. While Cerveró was convicted, the CVM acquitted former President Dilma Rousseff and other board members of failing their duty of diligence.

Environmental authorities are also targeting illegal mining operations. In Rondônia, the Federal Police and Ibama destroyed equipment used for illegal mining on the Madeira River, while in Bahia, an investigation is underway regarding a mining network that caused R$ 180 million in environmental damage. Additionally, the mayor of Centro Novo do Maranhão was convicted for illegal gold mining on federal land, and the Federal Public Ministry secured a court order for the return of R$ 1.48 million diverted from an industrial project in Maranhão.

Legal efforts have expanded to include civil public actions to protect indigenous rights. In Betim, the Federal Public Ministry has sought an injunction to halt mining activities by Verdebrita Beneficiamento e Comércio de Minérios Ltda. The MPF alleges that the operations cause soil tremors, noise, and structural damage to the homes of the Katurãma and Ilha Grande indigenous villages.