ARARIBOIA INDIGENOUS TERRITORY, Brazil — In November 2019, Paulo Paulino Guajajara, a dedicated “Guardian of the Forest,” was tragically murdered in an ambush allegedly orchestrated by loggers in Brazil’s Maranhão state. As a member of the Indigenous Guajajara community in the Arariboia Territory, Paulo played a crucial role in protecting not only his people but also the uncontacted Awá tribe, one of the most endangered Indigenous groups in the world.

Over the past two decades, more than 50 Guajajara individuals have lost their lives to violence linked to illegal logging, yet none of the perpetrators have faced justice. Paulo’s case is poised to become a landmark moment as it seeks to be the first Indigenous murder case to go before a federal jury.

In August 2023, journalist Karla Mendes from Mongabay returned to Arariboia to speak with Paulo’s family and Laércio Guajajara, a fellow Guardian who survived the ambush. Their voices bring renewed attention to this critical issue, as justice remains elusive four years after the crime.

This video highlights the urgent need for accountability and the protection of Indigenous rights in the face of environmental destruction.

Mongabay’s Video Team wants to cover questions and topics that matter to YOU. Are there any inspiring people, urgent issues, or local stories that you’d like us to cover? We want to hear from you. Be a part of our reporting process—get in touch with us here!

Banner Image: Forest guardian Laércio Guajajara witnessed the killing of his companion, fellow guardian Paulo Paulino Guajajara, and survived the attack in November 2019 in the Arariboia Indigenous Territory in Maranhão state. Images by Ingrid Barros for Mongabay & Karla Mendes/Mongabay.

End of impunity for Indigenous killings in sight for Brazil’s Guajajara