Brazilian Ex-President Bolsonaro and 36 Others Indicted in Alleged Coup Attempt

The Federal Police of Brazil has indicted former President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 others. They face charges related to an alleged coup attempt. The investigation spans nearly two years.

It involves high-ranking military officials, former ministers, and political allies. The police report, over 800 pages long, outlines six key areas of operation.

These include spreading disinformation and attacking the electoral system. Another focus was inciting military personnel to support the coup. The group also allegedly formed a parallel intelligence network.

Bolsonaro stands accused of knowing about and participating in the coup planning. Several former ministers are among the indicted. These include Augusto Heleno, Walter Braga Netto, and Paulo Sérgio Nogueira.

The president of Bolsonaro‘s political party, Valdemar Costa Neto, is also named. The investigation used various methods to gather evidence.

These included phone taps, bank record analysis, and search warrants. The police claim the group divided tasks to achieve their goals. This allowed for individual accountability in the alleged plot.

Political Tensions in Brazil

The case now moves to the next phase. Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes will review the report. He will then send it to the Attorney General’s Office. They have two weeks to decide on further action.

Braga Netto, Bolsonaro’s running mate in 2022, played a key role according to the police. The group allegedly planned to form a crisis cabinet after the coup.

They even discussed assassinating elected officials, including the new president. The investigation revealed detailed planning by the accused.

They allegedly considered using official vehicles and advanced espionage techniques. The operational costs were estimated at around R$100,000 ($17,543).

Bolsonaro has criticized the investigation. He claims Justice Moraes is overstepping his authority. The former president’s lawyers await access to the full report.

Other indicted individuals have either denied involvement or refrained from commenting. This case highlights ongoing political tensions in Brazil.

It raises questions about the stability of democratic institutions. The coming weeks will be crucial as the legal process unfolds.