Brazilian Police Detain General Walter Braga Netto, Ally of Ex-President Bolsonaro

The arrest of General Walter Braga Netto marks a significant development in the investigation into alleged coup attempts following Bolsonaro's electoral defeat.

Brazilian authorities announced on Saturday the arrest of General Walter Braga Netto, a prominent associate and former running mate of ex-President Jair Bolsonaro. Police have charged him with impeding an investigation into an alleged coup plot that emerged after Bolsonaro's loss in the 2022 elections. In a statement, federal police confirmed that the operation included his arrest and execution of two search warrants aimed at preserving the integrity of evidence for ongoing criminal inquiries.

General Braga Netto previously held the roles of chief of staff and defense minister during Bolsonaro's term. His detainment could further escalate legal challenges facing the former president, as accusations of orchestrating a comprehensive scheme to undermine democracy and maintain power loom over Bolsonaro's administration. This investigation, which spanned two years, has implicated Bolsonaro along with several members of his close circle, pushing federal prosecutors to consider charges that range from coup d'etat to criminal organization.

Details emerging from this sweeping inquiry suggest that the plot encompassed efforts to discredit Brazil's electoral system and rally military support for an unconstitutional retention of power. Allegations include a disturbing conspiracy to assassinate current president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva weeks ahead of his inauguration. Investigators assert that Bolsonaro was aware of these dangerous schemes, as outlined in an extensive police report delivered to prosecutors last month.

Defending his actions, General Braga Netto has denied any wrongdoing, with his legal team arguing that there were no intentions of staging a coup or any assassination plans. They emphasized his commitment to upholding legal and constitutional processes throughout the unfolding political turmoil in Brazil.