Democracy's Guardian: Brazil Arrests Four-Star General in Historic Coup Investigation

In a watershed moment for Brazilian democracy, Federal Police arrested General Walter Braga Netto, former Defense Minister and Bolsonaro's 2022 running mate, marking the first time a four-star general has been detained for plotting a coup in Brazil. The arrest stems from an extensive investigation into an alleged attempt to prevent President Lula's inauguration following the 2022 election.

The Federal Police investigation revealed Braga Netto's central role in the "Punhal Verde e Amarelo" operation, which allegedly aimed to prevent the democratic transition of power through extreme measures. According to testimony from former Bolsonaro aide Mauro Cid, Braga Netto personally delivered funds concealed in a wine bag to Major Rafael de Oliveira to finance the operation. The money, reportedly sourced from agribusiness figures, was intended to support a plan that included potential assassination attempts against key figures, including Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes and President-elect Lula.

Evidence suggests Braga Netto's involvement extended beyond financing. He allegedly chaired meetings at his residence to coordinate with other military officials and led a proposed "crisis cabinet" intended to assume control following the coup's execution. The investigation also uncovered his role in coordinating illicit actions involving members of the Special Forces known as "Kids Pretos," demonstrating a sophisticated level of operational planning.

Further complicating Braga Netto's legal situation, the Federal Police discovered evidence of obstruction of justice. Following Mauro Cid's arrest and subsequent plea bargain, Braga Netto attempted to access confidential details of the testimony through Cid's father. WhatsApp communications between Braga Netto and General Mauro Lourena Cid were deleted just days before a police operation, suggesting an attempt to cover up evidence.

The arrest's timing carries particular symbolic weight, coinciding with former President Dilma Rousseff's 77th birthday. This connection resonates deeply in Brazil's collective memory, as Rousseff herself was a political prisoner who endured torture during the country's military dictatorship (1964-1984), making Braga Netto's arrest a powerful reminder of democracy's ongoing struggle against authoritarian threats.