Chile: Mapuche community denounces the felling of ancient forest

Published at: 18/12/2024 02:53 PM

The Mapuche community of Chile, Juan José Ayenao, denounced former senator Eugenio Tuma for the felling of an ancient forest in Melipeuco, sacred to the indigenous people. The 140-hectare plot of land had been purchased by the politician in 2011 and managed by his company Forestal Monte Raíces Limitada.

Through an official statement issued by the Mapuches, during 2022, Tuma approached the communities to express his company's plans for the forest, which the indigenous people opposed.

The former senator assured that he would return with public force and did so last week, returning to the forest with excavators and machinery, guarded by police officers.

According to the indigenous community, the felled forest produces the water they use to supply themselves, as well as the spices they use for medical practices.

Mazo News Team