Two Loggers Killed by Isolated Tribe in Amazon Rainforest Clash

The incident occurred on August 29 in the Pariamanu river basin, an area that has seen heightened tensions between loggers and indigenous groups.

According to reports from indigenous rights group FENAMAD, two additional loggers are missing following the attack. The group, which represents 39 indigenous communities in the Cusco and Madre de Dios regions, has criticized the Peruvian government for failing to protect both the tribe and the workers from escalating violence.

Caroline Pearce, executive director of Survival International, stated that the conflict was “entirely avoidable,” criticizing Peruvian authorities for allowing logging in areas known to be Mashco Piro territory. The Forest Stewardship Council recently suspended the sustainability certification of the logging company involved, Canales Tahuamanu, for violations including encroaching on tribal land.

This attack follows previous incidents involving the Mashco Piro tribe, who have had violent encounters with outsiders. In July, the tribe fired arrows at a logging camp, resulting in one injury. The tribe is known for its hostility towards intruders and has been involved in other conflicts, including a 2022 incident where a logger was killed.

The Peruvian Ministry of Culture, which oversees indigenous rights, has announced an investigation and plans to send a police helicopter to the area. However, critics argue that the response has been insufficient.

“The Peruvian state has not taken preventive and protective measures,” FENAMAD said.

Tensions between isolated tribes and external activities have been exacerbated by recent changes in Peru’s environmental regulations. The relaxation of deforestation restrictions in January, described by critics as the “anti-forest law,” has led to increased illegal logging and further disputes over land use.