Former Brazilian President Bolsonaro Re-Arrested Over Tampering With Ankle Monitor
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been re-arrested for attempting to remove his electronic ankle monitor while under house arrest. According to a report by Brazil’s G1 news outlet, Bolsonaro used technical tools in an effort to unlock the monitor, violating the conditions of his confinement.
Police sources told reporters that Bolsonaro tried to loosen the lock on the device using a soldering tool, which triggered an alert and notified security personnel. The monitor has now been sent to relevant authorities for technical inspection, and the former president remains in custody.
Bolsonaro’s lawyer confirmed that his client was detained by federal police on Saturday. This development comes a day after his legal team had petitioned for his 27-year prison sentence to be served under house arrest, citing his poor health and serious medical conditions.
The 70-year-old former leader was convicted for leading a failed coup attempt in 2022 against President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Trial documents reveal that Bolsonaro directed a group that plotted to assassinate the current president, his vice president, and a high-ranking Supreme Court judge. Several military officials and a police officer have also received prison sentences in connection to the plot.
Bolsonaro’s trial sparked a strong reaction from U.S. President Donald Trump, who imposed a 40% tariff on certain Brazilian goods. However, diplomatic negotiations have since eased tensions between Washington and Brasília, and on Thursday, the United States announced the removal of additional tariffs on Brazilian meat and coffee exports.
