RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) – Construction on a mansion belonging to Brazilian soccer player Neymar Jr was halted on Thursday due to environmental violations, officials said on Thursday, adding that the high-profile athlete could face a fine of at least $1 million.
The residence is located in the coastal town of Mangaratiba on the south coast of Rio de Janeiro state.
The luxury project violated rules regarding use and movement of fresh water sources, rock and sand, the local government said in a statement.
If the violations are proved, Neymar Jr could be forced to pay at least 5 million reais ($1.05 million) in fines, according to the statement.
Officials said that during their visit to the property to stop construction, the athlete’s father, Neymar da Silva Santos, insulted them. He was subsequently threatened with arrest but was ultimately not detained.
A Neymar family spokesperson declined to comment on the matter.
($1 = 4.7729 reais)
(Reporting by Rodrigo Viga Gaier; Writing by Peter Frontini and Carolina Pulice; Editing by Shri Navaratnam)
