Guajajara encounter group of uncontacted Awá Indians

Some weeks ago, Guajajara Indians who live in the territory of Arariboia in Maranhão state, Brazil, had a chance encounter with a group of about 20 uncontacted Awá Indians.  The meeting was friendly and happened near a Guajajara village. The Awá approached the Guajajara and spoke with them and touched them. According to the Guajajara the Awá suddenly appeared to take fright at something and swiftly disappeared into the forest.

The Awá of Arariboia have shunned all contact with outsiders, although the Guajajara have known of their presence for some time. Both tribes are suffering from the impact of loggers and colonists who have invaded the area and destroyed tracts of forest.