Brazil Police Raid Bolsonaro’s Home, Court Imposes Ankle Monitor

Brazil Police Raid Bolsonaro’s Home, Court Imposes Ankle Monitor
Supreme Court orders him to wear ankle monitor, bans social media and foreign contact
Trump defends Bolsonaro, triggering diplomatic tension with Brazil

By Grateful Ogunjebe

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is facing renewed legal pressure as authorities raided his residence and political base.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the operation, executed early Friday, comes amid accusations he tried to overturn Brazil’s 2022 presidential election.

Federal agents stormed several properties, seized documents, and found $14,000 in cash allegedly intended for personal use.

The Supreme Court mandated that Bolsonaro wear an electronic ankle monitor and barred him from using social media.

He’s also prohibited from contacting foreign officials or visiting embassies, as the court considers him a flight risk.

Bolsonaro dismissed the charges, calling the restrictions a “supreme humiliation.”

“I’m a former president, I’m 70. I never planned to leave Brazil,” he told reporters outside a police station.

The court also alleged Bolsonaro and his son colluded with the United States to influence Brazil’s political environment.

Trump’s public support added to the tension, with the former U.S. president calling the case a “witch hunt.”

He even threatened Brazil with a 50% tariff starting August 1 if the trial wasn’t dropped.

The Supreme Court responded, describing Trump’s actions as “offensive” and a breach of Brazil’s sovereignty.

President Lula decried the interference, telling CNN the judiciary is acting independently.

“Bolsonaro is being tried for attempting a coup,” Lula said, suggesting Trump’s comments crossed diplomatic lines.

Bolsonaro later thanked Trump on X (formerly Twitter), posting the letter with the words “eternal gratitude.”

In a video statement, he claimed: “I’m not a criminal the real criminal is the one persecuting me.”

Bolsonaro faces five serious charges alongside 33 others, including attempted coup and plans to assassinate top officials.

Analysts warn of growing diplomatic strain as Trump’s influence persists, but note China remains Brazil’s largest trading partner.