Former police chief arrested for alleged electoral interference in Brazil

In Florianópolis, the Brazilian Federal Police arrested the former director of the Highway Police, Silvinei Vasques, on allegations of orchestrating a scheme to impact the 2022 presidential elections.

On election day, where a runoff was held between Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the Highway Police implemented extensive roadblocks and checks in the northeastern region of Brazil.

This region had shown significant support for Lula in pre-election polls.

Consequently, numerous voters faced challenges reaching polling stations, potentially hindering their right to vote.

Furthermore, Vasques reportedly ignored an order from Supreme Federal Court judge Alexandre de Moraes to dismantle the roadblocks, which continued regardless.

A day prior to these actions, Vasques had briefly posted on social media endorsing Bolsonaro, though the message was later deleted.

After his arrest, authorities seized his mobile phone, computer, and passport.

Additionally, investigations are underway regarding the possible involvement of seven other Highway Police officials in the alleged scheme.

The Federal Police are probing potential offenses, including malfeasance, political violence, and hindering voting, an offense under the Electoral Code.