GNR Operation Targets Cartel Involved in Illegal Sewage and Sludge Disposal

The GNR conducted Operation Cloaca Máxima between November 10 and November 12, 2026, to target an alleged cartel involved in the illegal disposal of sewage and industrial sludge. This operation resulted in the arrest of 16 suspects and the execution of 36 search warrants across nine different districts. The investigation focused on the illegal discharge of waste onto agricultural and forest lands.

Scope of the investigation

The GNR mobilized approximately 200 personnel to carry out the operation. The investigation covered nine districts, including Braga, Porto, Vila Real, Viseu, Coimbra, Santarém, Lisboa, Setúbal, and Évora. The Braga Territorial Command led the investigation through the SEPNA Environmental Crime Investigation Nucleus. This specific investigation began approximately two years ago.

The operation involved a wide range of search warrants to gather evidence. Authorities executed 15 residential search warrants and 13 search warrants at waste management facilities. Additionally, officials executed 8 search warrants at public entities. These actions were part of a larger effort to uncover coordinated criminal activity involving the management and transport of hazardous waste.

Evidence and seizures

During the operation, authorities seized a significant amount of cash and luxury items. The total amount of cash seized included 279,160 euros and 8,003 US dollars. In addition to the currency, officers seized three luxury watches along with various electronic devices and documents.

The investigation revealed that suspects allegedly presented sludge as organic compost to simulate legal transport and use. This method was used to facilitate the illegal disposal of waste. Forensic analysis of the deposit sites provided evidence of environmental damage. The analysis revealed that the soil at these sites was contaminated with Salmonella and E. coli bacteria.

Criminal charges and findings

The GNR identified evidence of coordinated action between waste management operators, transporters, and other individuals involved in sludge discharge and soil incorporation. The investigation targets several potential crimes, including pollution, document forgery, computer fraud, money laundering, and criminal association.

The illegal disposal of industrial sludge and sewage on agricultural and forest lands poses significant risks to the environment. The investigation continues as authorities process the seized documents and electronic devices to further identify the full extent of the criminal network.

Glossary

• Braga — SC Braga is a football club from the Minho region. The club has facilities including the Estádio Municipal de Braga, the Arena SC Braga, and the Cidade Desportiva.
• Porto — FC Porto is a football club. The club's players include international Portuguese midfielder Danilo.
• Vila Real — The District of Vila Real is a district located in northern Portugal. It is a rugged area characterized by low mountains and narrow valleys.
• Coimbra — Coimbra is a city in Portugal that has served as the seat of the Kingdom of Portugal. It is also the location where the University moved at various points in history.