The Brazilian government announced its intention to seek extradition for over 60 individuals who fled to Argentina following their indictment for alleged participation in riots that rocked Brazil’s capital last year. The unrest, led by supporters of former right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro, occurred roughly a week after Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva assumed office.
On January 8, 2023, thousands of protesters breached government buildings in Brasília, with many supporters of Bolsonaro being subsequently arrested, charged, and released on bail. Since the inauguration of right-wing President Javier Milei in December, numerous individuals have sought political asylum in Argentina.
Federal Police Chief Andrei Passos stated, “We will compile a list of all convicted individuals possibly residing in Argentina and initiate extradition requests.” However, it remains uncertain whether Milei, a close ally of Bolsonaro and a vocal critic of President Lula, will accede to these requests.
The violence during the riots resulted in injuries to several police officers and extensive damage to government buildings, including the presidential palace, Congress, and Supreme Court, following the rioters’ forcible entry.
While the Brazilian government alleges that the riots were part of a coup attempt orchestrated by Bolsonaro, who contested his narrow electoral defeat, Bolsonaro denies any involvement. President Lula has implicated collusion by individuals within the armed forces.
One riot participant has already been sentenced to 17 years in prison for attempted coup d’état.