Drones Over Brasília: Supreme Court Locks Down for Bolsonaro Judgment

Authorities mobilize a mega security scheme with drones and inspections for Bolsonaro’s STF judgment.

Brasília features this extensive setup throughout September, starting with the criminal action against former President Jair Bolsonaro.

Official announcements from the Supreme Federal Court and the Federal District’s Public Security Secretariat detail the integrated operation.

They coordinate efforts between the STF’s Judicial Police and local forces. This protects the court amid the sensitive trial.

Federal Police send sniffer dogs into the STF daily at 6 a.m. Drones equipped with thermal imaging scan the perimeter day and night. Barriers close off the Praça dos Três Poderes completely.

Security agents stay overnight inside the STF building. They maintain this even during the September 7 Independence Day holiday. Daily checks occur at ministers’ residences, beyond the usual weekly ones.

The operation extends to the Esplanada dos Ministérios parade. Gates open to the public at 6 a.m. with inspection points.

Bans cover weapons, sharp items, flammables, glass, fireworks, large bags, tents, and unauthorized drones.

Drones Over Brasília: Supreme Court Locks Down for Bolsonaro Judgment

Military Police deploy vehicles and officers starting September 1 morning. Around 30 additional agents ensure 24-hour coverage.

An Integrated Intelligence Cell at the secretariat shares data and watches social media for threats.

The case, Action Penal 2668, targets the “Núcleo 1” defendants. Jair Bolsonaro, Alexandre Ramagem, Almir Garnier Santos, Anderson Torres, Augusto Heleno, Mauro Cid, Paulo Sérgio Nogueira, and Walter Braga Netto stand accused.

Charges include attempted coup, violent abolition of democratic rule, qualified damage, armed criminal association, and harm to protected heritage.

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The STF’s First Turma handles the trial from September 2. Ministers Alexandre de Moraes, Flávio Dino, Luiz Fux, Cármen Lúcia, and Cristiano Zanin decide the outcome. At least three votes secure a conviction.

Sessions occur on September 2, 3, 9, 10, and 12, with extras for thorough review. The opening runs from 9 a.m. to noon, where Moraes reads the report. Prosecutor Paulo Gonet presents arguments for up to one hour.

Defense lawyers each receive one hour for oral statements. Votes start with Moraes after eight hours of arguments. More than 3,300 individuals registered to follow proceedings.

Bolsonaro remains under house arrest with an ankle monitor since August 4. He breached earlier restrictions, per court orders. No dates exist yet for Núcleos 2 and 3.