Uncontacted Tribe in Peril as Logging Threatens Amazon Territory

LONDON – Recent footage captured by Survival International reveals the presence of over 50 uncontacted Mashco Piro individuals in the Peruvian Amazon, just miles from active logging sites. The images, taken near the Yine village of Monte Salvado, highlight the urgent need for protective measures for the Mashco Piro, believed to be the largest uncontacted tribe globally. In a separate incident, another group of 17 Mashco Piro was spotted near Puerto Nuevo, further emphasizing their proximity to logging activities. Survival International, a human rights organization advocating for Indigenous rights, has called for the immediate revocation of logging licenses in the area, asserting that the territory rightfully belongs to the Mashco Piro. Logging companies, including Canales Tahuamanu, have established extensive operations within the Mashco Piro territory, despite the Peruvian government acknowledging years ago that these activities are encroaching on Indigenous lands. The organization claims that the logging operations pose significant risks, including the introduction of diseases and potential violence. Alfredo Vargas Pio, president of the local Indigenous organization FENAMAD, condemned the government's failure to protect the Mashco Piro's territory, stating that the logging activities could lead to a humanitarian crisis. Survival International has urged the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to withdraw its certification of Canales Tahuamanu, arguing that continued certification undermines the integrity of the system. Survival International Director Caroline Pearce emphasized the critical situation, asserting that immediate action is necessary to safeguard the Mashco Piro's land and prevent a looming disaster.