In a sudden turn of events, an explosion outside Brazil’s Supreme Court in Brasilia claimed the life of one individual and necessitated the swift evacuation of justices and staff.
The incident, occurring at approximately 7:30 p.m. local time on a Wednesday, followed the conclusion of the day’s court sessions. Authorities confirmed that the blast took place in Praca dos Tres Poderes, a significant area housing Brazil’s major government edifices, including the presidential palace, Supreme Court, and Congress.
Initially, a police statement verified the explosion of an artifact outside the court, though details remain scant. Firefighters corroborated the fatality on site, without releasing the victim’s identity. The prompt evacuation ensured the safety of all court personnel, as shared by Jorge Macedo, a top court staff member, to The Associated Press.
Local media coverage suggested the occurrence of two explosions separated by approximately 20 seconds, adding complexity to the unfolding situation. Notably, during the explosion, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was not present in the adjacent presidential palace, as confirmed by spokesperson José Chrispiniano.
In response to the explosion, police imposed a blockade around the vicinity encompassing the Supreme Court, Congress, and the presidential palace. Concurrently, a thorough security sweep of the presidential palace surroundings was underway by the presidential security bureau.
The background of this event is marred by recent tensions, as the Supreme Court has faced threats from far-right groups linked to former President Jair Bolsonaro. This stems from the court’s firm stance against the dissemination of false information.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes, notable for spearheading investigations into riots conducted by Bolsonaro’s supporters on January 8, 2023, has been a central figure in receiving numerous threats. These threats underscore the heightened security concerns surrounding the Supreme Court in recent years.
Moreover, prior to the incident outside the Supreme Court, an explosion was reported near Brazil’s Congress. This prior explosion reportedly did not result in damage, yet it contributes to the growing apprehension in the area.
Currently, Brazil’s federal police are conducting an investigation into the explosion outside the Supreme Court, yet they have not disclosed a motive. This lack of information leaves many questions unanswered, contributing to an atmosphere of uncertainty and caution within the nation’s capital.
The explosion near Brazil’s Supreme Court underscores ongoing security challenges amidst political tensions in the country. As investigations continue, the incident highlights the necessity for vigilance and increased security measures in safeguarding significant government institutions.
Source: WSVN
