Missing in the Amazon: the fightback – episode five

In this episode, the hosts reflect on the unique funerals of Dom and Bruno, showcasing how their lives and work influenced their communities. Dom's funeral featured personal instructions for a non-religious service with lively music, emphasizing celebration over mourning. Bruno's funeral became a communal event, represented by indigenous rituals, which underscored his impact on both local and native communities.

Amidst the loss, there’s a fight against environmental degradation in the Amazon, marked by significant government action under President Lula's leadership against illegal logging and mining. The episode discusses 'Operation Wacky,' a large-scale raid aimed at halting illegal mining, revealing the depth of organized crime thriving in the region.

As authorities confront environmental crimes, it's shown that efforts often collapse against the sheer scale of involvement and organized criminal networks. Allegations arise linking Colombia, an elusive figure orchestrating poaching and smuggling operations, to the planning of Bruno and Dom's murders, thereby complicating the narrative of personal vendetta with systemic crime.

The challenges of judicial processes in such charged environments are highlighted, causing concerns about fairness and justice for the accused, while raising questions about the future of environmental activism in Brazil. The episode closes with a hint at the ongoing dangers facing activists continuing Dom and Bruno’s legacy in protecting the Amazon.