Operation 'Contragolpe': Generals Implicated in Plot to Assassinate Lula and Moraes

Nov 20, 2024, 11:59 AM

Brazilian authorities are investigating a plot involving military personnel to assassinate President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. The Federal Police (PF) uncovered messages, secret groups, photos, and security camera footage detailing the plan, which included monitoring and potential execution of the targets near Moraes' residence in the Asa Sul district. High-ranking military officials, including General Mário Fernandes, Lieutenant Colonel Rafael Martins, and General Braga Netto, whose house was used for a meeting about the plot, have been implicated. The scheme, code-named 'Punhal Verde Amarelo' and 'Copa 2022,' involved stealing personal data from an engineer to conceal identities. Former President Jair Bolsonaro and his former aide Mauro Cid have been mentioned in connection with the scheme. Mauro Cid has been summoned by Justice Alexandre de Moraes to provide further clarification after the PF reported omissions and contradictions in his previous testimony, potentially leading to the annulment of his delation agreement. The revelations have harmed the military's image and raised serious concerns within the government, with officials like Justice Luis Roberto Barroso calling for rigorous investigations and urging the Armed Forces to assist in addressing extremist elements within their ranks. The operation, named 'Contragolpe,' has reignited debates over the role of the military in politics.