Indigenous Protesters Take Control of Oil Wells in Peruvian Amazon: Chief, Reports Reuters

Villagers in the Peruvian Amazon have shut down at least 50 oil wells operated by Frontera Energy Corp in protest over ongoing negotiations regarding a new contract, despite the ongoing issues of past pollution, as reported by the leader of an indigenous federation on Wednesday.

Approximately 600 members of the native Achuar communities in the Corrientes River basin took control of the wells along with an electric plant and oil tanks used by the Canadian company in Block 192, which is the largest oilfield in the country. Carlos Sandi, president of the Feconacor federation, provided details about the situation.

This protest stems from the government’s decision, under President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, to not enforce an indigenous rights law while negotiating with Frontera. The prior consultation law, enacted in 2011, mandates that the government consult with indigenous populations before approving any development plans that may impact their communities.

Rising frustration among indigenous groups threatens to undermine Frontera’s operations in Peru as its two-year contract approaches expiration. The company has been attempting to establish a long-term agreement for Block 192 with the state energy regulator, Perupetro. Tribal leaders have warned that they would take further action to halt oil operations unless their concerns are properly addressed through prior consultation.

The communities residing in Block 192 are primarily seeking remediation of past oil pollution, along with improved access to education and healthcare, according to Sandi.

Frontera, which has managed Block 192 for the last two years, has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding the protests. Tensions may escalate further as Quechua villagers are preparing to seize 16 additional oil wells and an airport in the Pastaza River basin.

The Culture Ministry of Peru, responsible for safeguarding indigenous rights, has not provided immediate feedback when contacted. Last week, the ministry denied the communities’ request for prior consultation but indicated that the government might reconsider if new proposals concerning Block 192 are introduced.

In August, Block 192 in Peru’s Loreto region was reported to have produced around 9,500 barrels of oil per day, according to official statistics.