US: Brazilian Former Intelligence Chief Arrested by ICE

U.S. immigration authorities have apprehended Alexandre Ramagem, the ex-head of Brazil’s intelligence agency, following a formal extradition request from the country. The arrest occurred in Orlando, Florida, and marks the culmination of international collaboration between law enforcement agencies.

Ramagem, who once led the main intelligence body ABIN under President Jair Bolsonaro, was convicted of participating in a failed coup attempt targeting Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s 2022 election win. The conviction, handed down by Brazil’s Supreme Court, led to a 16-year prison sentence. However, he managed to flee the country before his arrest could be executed.

Brazil’s Federal Police confirmed the detention, stating that the individual sought for capture had been detained by ICE. While the agency did not reveal his identity publicly, it emphasized the significance of the operation, which involved joint efforts between U.S. and Brazilian law enforcement.

Extradition Process and Background

The extradition request was formally submitted in December, setting the stage for this arrest. Ramagem’s role as a former police officer and intelligence chief underscores his influence in Brazilian political affairs. His involvement in the coup plot has drawn attention to the internal power struggles within the nation’s government.

Brazil’s Federal Police stated that a Brazilian man, whose capture was sought by the country’s authorities, was arrested in Orlando, Florida, by ICE. The police did not identify the man but confirmed he had been convicted of plotting a coup by Brazil’s Supreme Court.

ICE has not disclosed additional specifics about Ramagem’s detention. This development highlights the ongoing efforts to bring fugitives linked to political crimes to justice. The video embedded in the original article requires JavaScript and a modern web browser to view.