Official announcements from Brazilian Federal Police or media reports

Braga Netto Arrested for Obstruction of Justice in Coup Investigation

Dec 14, 2024, 10:34 AM

Walter Braga Netto, a retired general and former vice-presidential candidate on Jair Bolsonaro's 2022 ticket, was arrested by Brazil's Federal Police on December 14, 2024, in Rio de Janeiro. The arrest is part of an investigation into an alleged coup attempt following the 2022 presidential election. Braga Netto is accused of obstructing justice and playing a central role in planning the coup, which sought to prevent the inauguration of the elected government. The investigation indicates that he approved and financed clandestine actions, including a plan to assassinate President Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. The Federal Police also executed a preventive arrest warrant, two search and seizure warrants, and a precautionary measure at his residence. Braga Netto is currently in custody at the Eastern Military Command. The operation follows broader indictments against Bolsonaro and 36 others for crimes such as violent abolition of the democratic rule of law and criminal organization.