Brazil’s Federal Police detained Gen. Walter Braga Netto, a former cabinet member of President Jair Bolsonaro and his 2022 vice-presidential running mate, on Saturday. The arrest is linked to investigations into an alleged plot to overturn Bolsonaro’s election defeat in 2022, a source close to the case confirmed.
The source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the arrest stems from accusations of obstructing evidence collection.
Braga Netto, formally accused in November alongside Bolsonaro and 35 others, allegedly conspired to keep Bolsonaro in office following his failed reelection bid. While formal charges have yet to be filed, reports suggest Braga Netto sought information on what a previously arrested Bolsonaro aide had disclosed to investigators, including whether the aide had entered a plea deal.
Authorities also executed two search and seizure warrants in connection with the case.
Braga Netto previously served as Bolsonaro’s chief of staff from 2020 to 2021 and defense minister from 2021 to 2022. His legal team has not issued a statement but previously indicated they would await police documents before commenting.
This development is the latest in a series of legal challenges surrounding Bolsonaro and his allies following the controversial 2022 election.
