Study details criminal networks and gold's rise in Amazon region
What happened
A cross-border study, Crime Presence in the Amazon 2026, found that criminal networks operate in 768 of 1,310 Amazon municipalities across six countries, including Colombia. The study determined that gold has become the most lucrative criminal industry in the region, valuing a one-kilogram bar at roughly US$135,000 as of October 9, 2026.
From riotimesonline.com
Why it matters
The findings highlight the significant economic activity of illicit markets, particularly gold mining, within the Amazon region. The prevalence of criminal groups operating across multiple countries raises concerns regarding regional stability and governance.
From riotimesonline.com
Who's involved
- ColombiaCountry within the Amazon region surveyed by the study
- Abelardo de la EspriellaColombian lawyer and businessman potentially affected by escalating crime
- Banco de la RepúblicaCentral Bank of Colombia potentially affected by transnational crime
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Ministry of Mines and EnergySpeculative
The Ministry of Mines and Energy might face increased enforcement costs as illegal mining challenges regulatory authority.