Peruvian indigenous leader reported dead is alive, organizations clarify

Indigenous organizations in Peru have retracted their earlier report of the death of Asháninka leader Américo Pascual Tomisha, stating he is alive and well. The Organization of the Ucayali (ORAU), an affiliate of the Interethnic Association for the Development of the Peruvian Amazon (Aidesep), issued a statement clarifying that Tomisha is safe with his family.

The initial alert, which claimed Tomisha was killed while confronting individuals extracting copaiba resin, reportedly originated from a comunero who informed Tomisha's son of the alleged murder. ORAU had previously denounced the killing and demanded an immediate investigation and protection for indigenous defenders.

However, a commission sent to verify the events confirmed Tomisha's well-being. ORAU emphasized the high vulnerability of indigenous communities, particularly in areas with poor communication, limited basic services, and the presence of illegal activities. The organization thanked the media for their dissemination efforts and acknowledged the prompt response from state authorities. They reiterated their commitment to protecting indigenous rights despite the risks involved in highlighting threats and illegal activities affecting their communities.