Missing in the Amazon: the protector and the poacher – episode three

In Episode 3 of 'Missing in the Amazon', hosted by Tom Phillips, listeners are introduced to the contrasting lives of Bruno, an advocate for the protection of Brazil's indigenous peoples, and Pelado, a poacher with a criminal background. The story unfolds in the Javari Valley, where Bruno works for FUNAI, the government agency responsible for indigenous rights. He forms a close bond with Beto Marubu, an indigenous leader, through their shared mission of safeguarding the land.

As Bruno becomes entrenched in indigenous culture and language, he meets Dom, an outsider who admires Bruno's passion. However, this admiration comes with peril, as tensions rise with Pelado, who resents the restrictions on his poaching activities. The episode details the historical context of the Javari Valley, including how policies that once encouraged settlement and exploitation have shifted to protect indigenous territories.

The narrative intensifies with the election of President Bolsonaro, whose administration undermines indigenous protections and emboldens criminals, including Pelado. Bruno faces danger as violence escalates; the murder of a close colleague, Maxiel, signals a grim shift in the struggle for land rights. To combat this, Bruno and other indigenous leaders form a surveillance team to resist poaching and illicit activities. Yet, the animosity from Pelado grows as he sees Bruno as an obstacle to his illegal operations.

In April 2022, additional threats arise, culminating in a foreboding atmosphere when Dom arrives shortly before his disappearance. The stage is set for a tragic confrontation as both sides draw closer in the fight for control over the land.