IBAMA fined companies and property owners BRL3.3 million in the first month of its ‘Arco de Fogo’ operations to control illegal logging and associated activities in the Brazilian Amazon, according to Só Notícias. The ongoing operations have been conducted primarily in the regions of Sinop and Alta Floresta. In the first month of its operation, IBAMA inspected 20 charcoal and timber production companies, resulting in over 46 companies being fined. According to IBAMA, 4,500 m³ of logs, sawnwood and veneer were deemed to be from
illegal sources and seized. In addition, 10 vehicles and
three chainsaws were confiscated. Some of the timber
companies accused by IBAMA of conducting illegal
activities have since obtained legal permission to conduct
legal timber related activities elsewhere. The IBAMA
inspection operations are expected to continue in the near
future. It is not known when IBAMA expects to conclude
the operations. |