UAE leads major anti-environmental crime operation in Amazon Basin, 94 arrested, $64m in assets seized

14-day operation carried out in close cooperation with Colombia, Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador

Last updated: July 08, 2025 | 18:04

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The operation led to 350 high-impact field missions, the arrest of 94 suspects for various environmental violations, and the seizure of equipment, materials, and environmental assets valued at over $64 million.

X/SaifBZayed

Abu Dhabi: The UAE led Operation ‘Green Shield’, one of the most extensive multinational efforts to combat environmental crimes, resulting in the arrest of 94 individuals and the seizure of assets worth over $64 million.

In a post on his X account, Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, stated: “In response to requests from several countries in the region, the UAE led Operation 'Green Shield', one of the most extensive multinational efforts to address environmental crimes in the Amazon Basin, one of the world’s most ecologically vulnerable regions.”

The 14-day operation was carried out in close cooperation with Colombia, Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador, and in strategic partnership with the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI).

Also Read: Massive drug bust: UAE and Kuwait seize 110kg narcotics shipment

This initiative highlights the UAE’s growing role in global environmental protection and its commitment to international cooperation in tackling ecological crimes that threaten biodiversity, natural resources, and sustainable development.

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With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.