PF seizes lightning stones in operation against sale of archaeological materials over the internet

The Federal Police (PF) in Maranhão launched Operation Pedras de Raio this Tuesday (11) to repress the irregular trade in archaeological goods located in the state.

After identifying and locating the person responsible for an advertisement on the internet, the Federal Police carried out a search and seizure warrant at the suspect’s house, this Tuesday, in Turilândia (MA), and seized three lightning stones, according to the investigation. CNN .

According to the Geological Survey of Brazil (SGB), the name of fulgurite (popularly “corisco stone” or “lightning stone”) is given to the material formed by the fusion of minerals or rocks by the action of lightning.

Upon reaching the ground, the very high temperature of the electrical discharge melts the material it encounters and can, in the process, form a new mineral substance. It is a natural and inorganic process, which produces a solid, homogeneous substance with a defined chemical composition.

Ray stone does not have a crystalline structure, but is similar to obsidian and tektites, thus justifying, according to the SGB, its study with other minerals.

According to the PF, the investigation began with a complaint sent by a professor at the Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), who saw the ad on the internet and notified the Federal Police.

In addition to the suspect, who was not arrested, other people are being investigated. They will answer, according to their responsibilities, for the crime of qualified reception and for the crime of destruction, destruction or deterioration of property specially protected by law, according to the PF.

Crime

Law nº 3.924/61 prohibits, throughout the national territory, the economic use of assets and archaeological sites. Possession and safeguarding of assets of an archaeological or prehistoric nature constitute, in principle, an immanent right of the State.