INTERPOL Arrests 233 in Major Environmental Crime Bust

An international crackdown on organized environmental crime, coordinated by INTERPOL, led to the arrest of 233 suspects across nine countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The operation targeted illegal deforestation, unregulated mining, and wildlife trafficking, revealing the extensive and interconnected nature of these crimes.

Authorities identified approximately 60,000 hectares of illegally cleared forest and recorded 312 suspects along with 313 seizures of materials linked to environmental crimes. Among the seized items were cyanide and mercury, which are associated with illegal mining and pose severe environmental risks.

The operation also focused on wildlife trafficking, resulting in the rescue of over 1,000 live animals, including reptiles like pythons, rare insects, exotic birds, big cats, and primates, highlighting the diverse range of species affected by these criminal networks.