Protesters at Cargill’s Brazil terminal should not be forced out, say prosecutors
Prosecutors Denounce Use of Force
A branch of Brazil’s federal public prosecutors’ office has denounced the potential use of force to remove Indigenous protesters from the vicinities of a Cargill port terminal in the Amazon. The prosecutors stated that a police presence could injure Indigenous people and that the use of force would contradict a court ruling.
Background of the Protest
Indigenous protesters have been blocking access to Cargill’s facility in Santarem, Brazil, in opposition to a decree signed by President Lula in August. The groups argue that the decree violates Brazilian law, which requires prior consultation with Indigenous communities on projects affecting tribal lands.
Broader Context
The protest is part of a wider movement against agribusiness expansion in the Amazon rainforest. Indigenous groups say they will remain at the site until the Lula administration revokes the decree. Cargill has denied any occupation of its facilities by protesters, identifying them as Indigenous groups through local media.