Profepa Reports Illegal Mercury Transport to FGR, Driver Detained

Mexico's environmental protection agency, Profepa, has lodged a formal complaint with the Attorney General's Office (FGR) following the discovery of mercury being illegally transported on a highway in Querétaro. The incident occurred within the Sierra Gorda region, specifically in the municipality of Pinal de Amoles.

During a roadside inspection, state police officers stopped a vehicle and found two 600-milliliter containers filled with mercury. The driver of the vehicle was subsequently detained and handed over to the Public Ministry. Profepa, under the leadership of Mariana Boy Tamborrell, confirmed the driver's identity was withheld pending investigation.

The FGR has opened a case file to investigate potential crimes against the environment and environmental management, offenses defined under the Federal Penal Code. Illegally storing or transporting hazardous substances like mercury can result in prison sentences ranging from one to nine years. This penalty increases by an additional three years if the offense occurs within protected natural areas. Reports from March 2026 suggest a link between mercury trafficking from Querétaro and illegal gold mining operations in South America, involving criminal organizations.