A man detonated explosives in a suicide attack near Brazil’s Supreme Court in Brasília, resulting in no other casualties but sparking evacuations and security measures in the area. The attacker, who attempted to enter the court but was unsuccessful, set off two explosions: one in a nearby car and another outside the court entrance.
Military police discovered additional explosives on the man’s body, raising concerns about potential further danger. An investigation is underway to determine if other explosives or individuals were involved in the incident, although initial reports suggest this may have been a “lone wolf” attack.
Following the explosions, police cordoned off the Three Powers Plaza, which houses Brazil’s Supreme Court, Congress, and the presidential offices. Authorities are conducting thorough security sweeps to ensure there are no additional threats.
A backpack with potential explosives and more materials was found near a traffic cone close to the court, indicating that the attacker may have planned a larger-scale incident. The suspect’s vehicle, located at the scene, was registered in his name, further suggesting he acted alone.
The attack occurred just days before major international events in Brazil, heightening security concerns. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is scheduled to meet with global leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping and the United States’ Joe Biden, in Brasilia and Rio de Janeiro for the G20 summit.
Suicide Bombing Attempt Near Brazil’s Supreme Court Sparks Security Concerns Ahead of G20 Summit
These high-profile meetings have increased scrutiny on Brazil’s security preparedness, with Attorney General Jorge Messias pledging a swift and comprehensive investigation. Authorities are aiming to understand the motivations behind the attack and to reinforce public safety measures.
The incident has drawn attention to political tensions within Brazil, especially in light of the January 2023 attacks on government institutions by supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Discontent with the Supreme Court has been rising as it tackles cases related to extremism and misinformation, which some conservative factions criticize as judicial overreach. Bolsonaro, a right-wing figure often compared to former U.S. President Donald Trump, has a significant base that opposes what they perceive as the court’s limits on conservative speech.
The suspect is reported to have ties to Bolsonaro’s party and had previously run for local office, although his identity has not been officially confirmed. This background adds a layer of complexity to the incident, as it may reflect broader dissatisfaction among Bolsonaro’s supporters with Brazil’s current government and judicial actions. The Supreme Court’s increasing role in political oversight, especially regarding social media regulation, has amplified divisions, with critics accusing it of stifling free expression.
