Mysterious Oil Spill Hits Dozens of Brazil Beaches
Brazilian officials are investigating the source of a vast oil spill that has hit dozens of beaches along the country’s north-eastern coast.
Analysis showed the oil found was of a type not produced in Brazil, according to the environmental agency Ibama
There is no evidence that fish and shellfish have been contaminated but at least six sea turtles and a seabird have been found dead.
A clean-up operation is under way in the areas affected.
The spill, first detected on 2 September, spans over 1,500km (932 miles) and has been detected in 105 locations in eight states, affecting wildlife and popular beaches including Praia do Futuro in Ceará, and Maragogi, in Alagoas.
Molecular analysis of the oil by Brazil’s state-run company Petrobras showed the crude oil spilled did not originate in the country, Ibama said in a statement.
The test also determined the oil came from a single source which has not yet been identified.
Beachgoers and fishermen have been urged to avoid the material.