Brazil’s Indian Foundation has released a video that shows images of a man believed to be the last surviving member of his tribe. No one knows the man’s name or that of his tribe. It appears he has lived alone in Brazil’s Amazon for 22 years. The video is from 2011. But officials say they last saw evidence he was alive in May. The man is cutting down a tree in the shaky video shot from a distance through trees and other leafy plants. The recording includes sound of his ax hitting the tree and bird calls.

Altair Algayer leads the team of investigators that observed the man. He said the foundation was unwilling to release the video earlier because it could not ask for the man’s permission. But he also noted that such images help to bring attention to people who struggle to keep their distance from the outside world.

Algayer spoke to the AP by phone. He said, “Lots of people are seeking out (this video). They want to know what is he like, how can he be seen, is he still alive. I think that ends up helping to protect the territory.”

Brazil is home to several native groups that are not in contact with other peoples. Their land is increasingly under threat, as is the land of natives in contact with the outside world. Many outside groups fight over the Amazon’s resources. Last year, 71 people were killed in conflicts over land. Brazil’s Pastoral Land Commission keeps records on the violence. It says 2017 was the most violent year since 2003.

Aliqismet BADALOV,

“Khalq qazeti”