Federal Police in Brasília executed the arrest of former President Jair Bolsonaro on Saturday, October 22. The arrest was carried out at Bolsonaro’s residence, which is located in a gated community in Jardim Botânico. This action followed a request from the Federal Police and was authorized by Supreme Court Minister Alexandre de Moraes.
Details of the Arrest
The preventive arrest stems from ongoing legal issues, including a prison sentence of 27 years and three months for an attempted coup against his successor. Despite the seriousness of these allegations, this arrest was characterized as a precautionary measure rather than an execution of the sentence.
Circumstances Surrounding the Arrest
Reports indicate that Bolsonaro’s son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, instigated a vigil outside the former president’s home. This gathering may have influenced the request for preventive detention. Following the arrest, Bolsonaro was transported to the Federal Police headquarters around 6:35 AM for processing.
Conditions of the Arrest
- Minister Moraes mandated that the arrest should occur without handcuffs.
- There was a specific directive to uphold the dignity of the former president during the arrest.
- Bolsonaro underwent a forensic examination at the National Criminalistics Institute (INC).
Attempts to Evade Arrest
It was reported that Bolsonaro attempted to remove his electronic ankle monitor just before the arrest, allegedly to escape custody. This attempted act occurred early Saturday morning, according to official documents.
Response from Michelle Bolsonaro
In the wake of her husband’s arrest, Michelle Bolsonaro shared her thoughts on social media. She expressed her faith with a message on Instagram, reassuring her followers, “I lift up my eyes to the hills; where does my help come from? I trust in the Lord.”
Bolsonaro’s arrest marks a significant event in Brazil’s ongoing political turbulence, showcasing the strained relations between former leaders and the judiciary.
