Interpol Busts Transnational Environmental Crime Rings in Latin America

In a major crackdown on environmental crimes in Latin America, a two-month multinational police operation led by Interpol has resulted in 225 arrests across nine countries. The operation, dubbed Operation Madre Tierra VII, was coordinated by Interpol's bureau for Central America and assisted by the organization's environmental security unit.

The operation, which took place in May and June of this year, uncovered more than 400 cases of environmental crimes, including illegal logging, wildlife trafficking, fishing violations, illegal mining, and pollution offenses. Among the most frequent violations were 203 forestry-related crimes and 138 linked to the illegal wildlife trade.

The investigation also exposed transnational routes that reached as far as Europe and Asia, revealing how organized crime networks are increasingly driving deforestation, illegal mining, and the exploitation of protected species across the region. Authorities seized a wide range of contraband, including live animals, shark and ray fins, and critically endangered totoaba fish.

The results of the operation underscore the growing threat that organized criminal groups pose to the environment in Latin America. As these groups expand their activities into illegal logging, mining, and wildlife trafficking, they are causing significant damage to ecosystems and undermining efforts to combat climate change. Authorities say that additional investigations are ongoing, and a final report will be presented in late November.