Logging in Brazil

Logging in the Amazon rainforest has once again become divisive issue in Brazilian politics, after satellite images taken in January revealed significant de-forestation.

As a result, authorities have sent in security forces to patrol against illegal logging.

The 300-strong team of armed federal police will patrol trouble spots, in an area of the country that is generally regarded as being free from law-enforcement.

While at least 70 sawmills are believed to be operating illegally in the state of Para, prostitution, drug-trafficking and corruption are also thought to be widespread.

Environmentalists believe the logging troubles started in the 1960s when the government built roads into the Amazon.

http://www.skynews.com.au/eco/article.aspx?id=220020