By Victor Kanayo
Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar has been fined $3.33 million by the Brazilian authorities for breaching environmental rules during the construction of his coastal mansion in the southeastern part of the country.
The luxury project violated rules regarding the use and movement of freshwater sources, rock and sand, local authorities first alleged late last month and confirmed on Monday.
His residence is located in the town of Mangaratiba on the southern coast of Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state.
According to CNN, Mangaratiba’s environmental body said in a statement on Monday that environmental infractions were made “in the construction of an artificial lake at the mansion.”
Besides the fine, the case will be probed by the local attorney general’s office, the state civil police and environmental protection office, among other environmental control bodies.
Neymar’s press office in Brazil did not respond to an AFP request for comment.
Neymar, 31, is currently recovering from surgery on his right ankle, which he underwent in Doha in March.
The striker has not played since February and doubts have arisen about his staying at PSG.
Neymar bought the Mangaratiba mansion in 2016.
It sits on 10,000 square meters (107,000 square feet) of land and features a heliport, spa and gym.
