Reserve soldier and former minister Walter Souza Braga Netto was arrested this Saturday, the 14th, as part of the investigation into the coup attempt aimed at preventing the inauguration of the Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The operation took place in Copacabana, in the southern area of Rio de Janeiro. The investigations indicate a strong involvement of the military in clandestine activities related to the case. The retired general’s lawyers said they will prove that the former minister did not interfere in investigations related to the probe into the coup attempt.
The PF claims that the freedom of the soldiers would represent a risk to public order, citing evidence that would hinder the investigation. Among the accusations made is Braga Netto’s attempt to influence and pressure members of the Armed Forces to join the conspiracy. Furthermore, there are allegations that he sought information on the award-winning collaboration of Mauro Cidformer aide-de-camp of Jair Bolsonaro.
The Federal Supreme Court (STF) has decided to maintain the preventive detention of General Walter Souza Braga Netto, arrested this Saturday morning (14/12) in an operation by the Federal Police (PF). The decision was made after the custody hearing. pic.twitter.com/FogxUWIqXg
— Orlando Guerreiro 🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩 (@orlandogerreir) December 15, 2024
What was Braga Netto’s role in the coup plot?
Authorities identified Braga Netto as a key figure in the planning and execution of the coup attempt. They claim he acted as an intellectual mentor, although he was under Bolsonaro’s command. The investigation highlights the coordination of illicit actions carried out by specialized military personnel, known as “black kids”. The charges also include his involvement in financing operations with suspicious assets, such as delivering money in a bag of wine.
One of the most serious aspects of the case is Braga Netto’s attempt to control the flow of information between the suspects, trying to align their versions of events to avoid detection. Evidence presented to the Federal Supreme Court (STF) suggests that his actions sought to protect those involved and minimize the legal risks they faced.
Braga Netto’s reactions and defense
After the arrest, Braga Netto’s defense team issued a press release reiterating their belief in due process of law. Lawyers representing the armed forces, Luís Henrique César Prata, Gabriella Leonel de S. Venâncio AND Francisco Eslei de Limathey said they were waiting to have full access to the files to comment in more detail. The defense seeks to demonstrate that there was no obstacle to the investigation, arguing that it will be able to prove its client’s innocence when all the facts are properly analyzed in court.
The arrest of the former minister sparked different reactions on the political and social scene. The Braga Netto case is among the most debated in relation to accusations against former members of the previous government, reflecting a division of public opinion regarding the validity and conduct of the ongoing investigations.
With the arrest of Braga Netto, attention turns to the judicial developments that will define his future. The expectation is that the defense will submit requests to the court for review of his pre-trial detention, presenting arguments aimed at his release. The progress of the case will be closely monitored by political observers, civil entities and the media, given its relevance in the current legal and political context.
Source: Terra
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