Detention of Former Intelligence Chief

BRASILIA, April 13 (Reuters) — Former Brazilian intelligence chief Alexandre Ramagem has been detained by ICE in the United States after he fled Brazil in September following his conviction for plotting a coup with ex-President Jair Bolsonaro. Ramagem, a former Federal Police inspector, was sentenced to over 16 years in prison for his role in a plot to overturn Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's 2022 election victory over Bolsonaro. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement confirmed his detention but did not provide further details.

Arrest Details and International Cooperation

Brazil's Federal Police said a Brazilian man sought by authorities was arrested in Orlando, Florida, in cooperation with U.S. law enforcement. While the individual was not officially named, officials confirmed he had been convicted by Brazil's Supreme Court for plotting a coup. Reports suggest Ramagem may have been detained following a minor traffic violation before being referred to immigration authorities, though this has not been independently verified.

Legal Case and Political Reactions

Ramagem has maintained his innocence, while allies have claimed he is facing political persecution. Brazilian Senator Jorge Seif has called for the United States to grant Ramagem political asylum, arguing that the charges are politically motivated. The case stems from a broader investigation into a coup attempt involving supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro, which resulted in multiple convictions, including Bolsonaro’s own sentence.

Background and Broader Implications

As head of Brazil's intelligence agency under Bolsonaro, Ramagem was accused of targeting critics and undermining trust in the electoral system. He was later elected as a federal lawmaker but lost his congressional seat following his conviction. His detention highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Brazil’s political landscape and the international dimension of legal actions tied to the coup investigation.