Border Closure with Other Countries under Consideration, Says Justice Minister

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Justice and Public Safety Minister Sérgio Moro said the Brazilian federal government is considering temporarily closing its borders with other countries to avert the spread of the new coronavirus in the country.

On Wednesday morning, March 18th, President Jair Bolsonaro took part in a videoconference meeting with other Mercosur presidents.

So far, the country has only restricted the influx of Venezuelans. According to the Minister, the measure was intended to prevent the spread of the disease in Brazil and not to burden the Brazilian health system. “The country would not be able to meet the demand coming from Venezuela”.

The Minister also announced that measures would be taken in relation to prisons. The federal government will provide supplies to prevent the spread of the disease among prisoners. The federal government also advised states to restrict visits in whole or in part.

Moro further assured that the government is committed to policing to ensure the safety of the population. “We believe that security cannot stop, as criminals do not reduce their activities because of the epidemic,” he said.

The Minister also stressed that all Brazilians should understand the gravity of the current situation in the country and to comply, with no panic, with the recommendations of the Ministry of Health.