Brazilian Police Detain Bolsonaro’s Former Ally in Coup Investigation

The arrest of General Walter Braga Netto intensifies allegations against Bolsonaro and his inner circle concerning efforts to undermine democracy following their electoral defeat.

Brazil's federal police took significant action today, arresting General Walter Braga Netto, a prominent figure associated with former President Jair Bolsonaro. The authorities have accused him of interfering in an investigation related to an alleged coup attempt devised by Bolsonaro's camp after his electoral loss in 2022.

This was confirmed by an anonymous police official, who indicated that the arrest aimed to discourage any repeat of “illegal actions” against the integrity of the investigative process. The sweeping operation involved not just Braga Netto, who previously held positions as chief of staff and defense minister, but also targeted other unnamed associates of Bolsonaro with search warrants.

The investigation has already drawn Bolsonaro into a web of allegations that encompass potential charges of undermining the democratic process, attempting a coup d'état, and engaging in organized crime. A months-long investigation has concluded that Bolsonaro orchestrated a mission to subvert the election by perpetuating doubts about its fairness, drafting a decree to invalidate the election results, and collaborating with military leaders to maintain his position.

Last month, federal police advised prosecutors to move forward with charges against Bolsonaro and around thirty others linked to his administration. However, decisions to formalize charges have yet to be made.

Further complicating this situation are shocking claims that the coup plot included plans to poison President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva shortly before his inauguration. A report consisting of 884 pages claims that Bolsonaro was fully aware of these sinister intentions.

Legal representatives for General Braga Netto have yet to respond to requests for comments, although he maintains that he was not involved in any coup attempts. His defense has insisted that there was no coup nor plans of assassination, asserting that he has consistently sought morally and legally sound resolutions.