Brazil’s Former Defence Minister Arrested Over 2022 Coup Plot Investigation

Brazilian authorities arrested Braga Netto, a former defence minister and close ally of ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, on Saturday for allegedly obstructing an investigation into a 2022 coup attempt, according to a police source.

The Federal Police confirmed it had detained individuals suspected of hindering the probe. “Braga Netto was arrested in the operation,” the source stated.

In late November, police issued a report recommending the indictment of Bolsonaro and several allies, including Netto, for attempting to stage a coup to prevent leftist Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva from taking office. Netto had also been Bolsonaro’s running mate during the 2022 elections.

Attorney General Paulo Gonet is currently reviewing the evidence to determine whether charges should be filed against Bolsonaro and the 36 individuals named as co-conspirators.

The 884-page report, the result of a nearly two-year investigation, accuses Bolsonaro and his associates of plotting to violently overthrow Brazil’s democratic state. It alleges collusion between Bolsonaro and military officials to claim election fraud and draft decrees to sideline the Supreme Court.

“The then-President of the Republic, Jair Bolsonaro, actively participated in creating the coup plan, directly contributing to documents and strategies aimed at retaining power despite his electoral defeat,” the report stated.

The investigation further alleges Bolsonaro was aware of a plan, known as “Green and Yellow Dagger,” devised by elite soldiers to assassinate President Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and a Supreme Court judge. This plan was reportedly discussed at Netto’s home and printed at the Planalto Palace, the presidential office.

Additionally, a draft of the coup plan was discovered at the headquarters of Bolsonaro’s Liberal Party among the belongings of one of Netto’s advisors, according to investigators.

Faridah Abdulkadiri

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