Brazil’s Former Defence Minister Braga Netto Arrested in Coup Plot Investigation

Brazilian authorities have arrested former Defence Minister Braga Netto, a close ally of ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, in connection with an alleged coup attempt following the 2022 presidential election. Netto, who was also Bolsonaro’s running mate in the 2022 elections, is accused of obstructing investigations into the plot, according to a police source who spoke to AFP.

Federal Police Crackdown

The Federal Police confirmed detaining individuals accused of obstructing the investigation into the alleged coup attempt. Netto’s arrest follows a November report recommending the indictment of Bolsonaro and 36 other allies for conspiring to prevent the inauguration of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

The 884-page report, the culmination of a nearly two-year investigation, accuses Bolsonaro and his allies of planning to violently overthrow Brazil’s democratic institutions.

Allegations Against Bolsonaro and His Allies

The investigation highlights collusion between Bolsonaro, military officials, and other allies to falsely claim fraud in the 2022 election. The report alleges that Bolsonaro directly participated in creating a coup plan to remain in power after his electoral defeat.

Key findings include:

• Drafting a Coup Plan: Documents and strategies were allegedly devised by Bolsonaro and his team to undermine Brazil’s democratic processes.
• “Green and Yellow Dagger” Plan: Investigators uncovered a plan to assassinate President Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and a Supreme Court judge. Discussions about this plan reportedly took place at Netto’s residence.
• Evidence from the Liberal Party: A draft of the coup plan was found at the headquarters of Bolsonaro’s Liberal Party among items belonging to one of Netto’s advisors.

Legal and Political Fallout

The Federal Police’s report has been submitted to Attorney General Paulo Gonet, who is now determining whether to press charges against Bolsonaro and the other accused individuals. If prosecuted, this could mark an unprecedented legal challenge for Bolsonaro and his allies, further exposing the depths of the alleged coup plot.

Netto’s arrest signals intensified efforts to hold individuals accountable for undermining Brazil’s democracy, highlighting the ongoing political and legal battles shaping the country’s future.