Investigation into Salt Mining Disaster in Maceio

SAO PAULO (Reuters) – Brazil's federal police announced on Friday that 20 individuals have been formally accused following an investigation into a sinking ground disaster tied to salt mining activities in Maceio, where Braskem, a petrochemicals firm, has operated for decades.

The police did not disclose the names of the accused or the company involved in the investigation's conclusions.

Braskem's operations in the region began in the 1970s but were suspended in 2019 after officials stated that mining activities led to the sinking of five neighborhoods. As a result, thousands of families were displaced from their homes.

In recent years, Braskem has been paying billions of reais in reparations to the city and its residents affected by the disaster.

In reaction to a Reuters inquiry, Braskem stated that it has not fully reviewed the police report. The company asserted, "Since the beginning of the investigation, we have provided information and clarifications within our reach" and emphasized, "We have always complied with the laws and regulations of the sector."

The police did not specify the exact accusations against the 20 individuals, only mentioning that these include six different offenses, three of which are under Brazil's environmental crimes law. Braskem expressed its confidence in the individuals involved in the investigation.