Brazil judge freezes assets of Vale and BHP after finding their joint venture Samarco was unable to pay damages for the dam burst in Minas Gerias - press
- The judge ruled that Vale and BHP could be held liable for the BRL20B ($5B) in damages being sought by the state of Minas Gerais. Vale argued unsuccessfully that Samarco was independent legal entity that should be wholly responsible for the accident and resulting fines and damage awards.