During an international press conference held on February 17, Mapuche representatives exposed repressive tactics reminiscent of practices from past dictatorships, such as planting evidence to incriminate community members in the fires.

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Mapuche Communities and Argentine Organizations Denounce Persecution and Criminalization in Chubut

During the month of February, Argentine Patagonia has been the scene of devastating wildfires that have ravaged approximately 30,000 hectares, displacing hundreds of residents in the region.

The flames have particularly affected the eastern slopes of the Andes Mountains, a territory historically inhabited by Mapuche communities, who have taken the initiative to combat the climate-related disasters through self-organized efforts.

However, the State’s response has been marked by repression. Argentine police authorities have carried out operations that include raids and arbitrary arrests targeting the Mapuche, hindering their efforts to aid their communities.

Members of the Mapuche community of Lof Pillán Mahuiza, located between Corcovado and Cerro Centinela, have reported acts of intimidation and police violence in recent days.

During an international press conference held on February 17, Mapuche representatives exposed repressive tactics reminiscent of practices from past dictatorships, such as planting evidence to incriminate community members in the fires.

One emblematic case is that of Victoria Núñez Fernández, who has been sentenced to two months of preventive detention without evidence linking her to the crimes she is accused of. Her situation has raised concerns among human rights defenders, who warn of the risk of her becoming a new martyr for the Mapuche cause, similar to what happened with Santiago Maldonado in 2017.

The Mapuche community of Lof Pillán Mahuiza has called on the international community to pay attention to their situation and provide support in their fight for justice and the defense of their rights.

Meanwhile, the deployment of security forces, including the Federal Task Force (GEOP), continues to create an atmosphere of intimidation and repression against the indigenous communities in the region.

The struggle for justice and self-determination of the Mapuche people is intensifying in a context where their history and rights continue to be challenged.

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