Two loggers were reportedly killed by members of the uncontacted Mashco Piro Indigenous tribe in the depths of the Amazon in Peru, with bow and arrow, as they allegedly trespassed on the tribe’s land. The rights organization FENAMAD, which advocates for the rights of Indigenous peoples in Peru, highlighted a growing tension between loggers and Indigenous tribes and called for increased government protection measures. The incident occurred on August 29 in the Pariamanu river basin, where loggers were expanding pathways into the forest and encountered the reclusive Mashco Piro tribe.
FENAMAD stated that two other loggers were missing and one was injured in the attack, prompting ongoing rescue efforts. The group represents 39 Indigenous communities in southeastern Peru and raised concerns about the lack of preventive and protective measures by the Peruvian state to safeguard the workers affected by the violence. Despite previous warnings from FENAMAD about the potential for violence, little action has been taken by authorities, according to the organization.
The clash with the Mashco Piro tribe is not an isolated incident, as previous conflicts have been reported, including a fatal encounter in 2022 where two loggers were shot with arrows while fishing. Critics have criticized Peru for loosening restrictions on deforestation, leading to increased environmental concerns such as deforestation for agriculture and illegal logging and mining activities.
While some efforts have been made by local authorities, including mobilizing a helicopter for rescue operations, there is a perceived lack of commitment from Peru’s Ministry of Culture, responsible for protecting Indigenous peoples. The Ministry of Culture has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the recent attack and protective measures. Additionally, a logging company had its sustainability certification suspended for encroaching on Indigenous land, sparking international criticism of the certification process and the need for stronger action to protect human and Indigenous rights.
Environmental groups and activists have denounced the ongoing violence and rights violations occurring in the region, emphasizing the urgency for effective interventions to prevent further loss of life. The debate over the protection of Indigenous territories and sustainable resource management continues as stakeholders call for greater accountability and enforcement of regulations to address the complex issues in the Amazon.
