Invasion of public lands due to the Brazil nut harvest | Avasallamiento de tierras fiscales debido a la zafra de castaña

By Erbol:

PREVENTIVE ACTIONS REQUESTED

Conflicts over the invasion of public lands are reported in Pando due to the Brazil nut harvest

Brazil nut harvest in Pando. Illustrative image

The 2024-2025 Brazil nut harvest in Pando has sparked a series of conflicts among Brazil nut collectors, farmers, seasonal workers, and landowners, who accuse each other of invading unavailable public lands. According to reports from Radio Frontera, part of the Erbol-Cobija network, tensions have escalated in various areas of the department, raising concerns both locally and nationally.

In response to the growing tensions, Deputy Sergio Maniguary has requested a detailed report from the Minister of Government, Eduardo del Castillo, on preventive actions taken by the government to avoid such land invasions.

Maniguary also urged coordinated efforts with institutions like the Forest and Land Authority (ABT), the National Institute of Agrarian Reform (INRA), and the Attorney General’s Office to address the issue comprehensively.

Conflicts over land invasions have not been the only incidents worrying authorities. A tragic death related to the harvest was reported in the community of San Miguel.

The assembly member criticized the delayed actions of both the police and the Departmental Prosecutor’s Office, accusing them of failing to act in time to prevent violent clashes.

“This is a preventive issue. Since the beginning of the Brazil nut harvest, immediate actions should have been taken to ensure control and citizen security,” he said.

The legislator also called on the national government and the Ministers of Planning and Economy to provide necessary funding to the police and regional governments to enable them to carry out their control tasks in the affected municipalities.

The deputy emphasized that key institutions like the Prosecutor’s Office and the Governor’s Office have failed to take timely measures. According to Maniguary, their delayed actions are exacerbating the conflicts, impacting not only those directly involved but also the general population’s well-being.

“The lack of preventive actions is creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and violence among Bolivians, which cannot continue,” the assembly member stated. He also warned that if swift action is not taken, the issues arising from the Brazil nut harvest could further escalate, with even graver consequences for regional security.

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