A case involving the alleged attempt to misappropriate million-dollar jewels given to former President Jair Bolsonaro during his time as head of state has led to the charging of several individuals, including Bolsonaro himself, by the Brazilian Federal Police. The investigation into the matter has concluded and charges have been filed against twelve individuals, including Bolsonaro, for crimes such as appropriation of public property, money laundering, and criminal association.
The case involves valuable jewels received by Bolsonaro on official trips that should have been returned to state assets upon leaving office. Among the accused is Bolsonaro’s former aide-de-camp Mauro Cid, as well as lawyer Frederick Wassef, who allegedly traveled to the US to repurchase jewels after the state demanded their return.
Bolsonaro has also been charged in another case involving fraud in obtaining a vaccination certificate against Covid-19, where the confession of Mauro Cid played a key role. Additionally, he is under investigation for his involvement in a coup plot to annul the electoral victory of his opponent in 2022 and retain power. Alongside criminal investigations, he faces scrutiny from the electoral justice system for abuses of political and economic power.
Despite these legal challenges, Bolsonaro remains a controversial and divisive figure in Brazilian politics. The outcome of this investigation will determine if there is enough evidence to prosecute the accused and if a trial should be opened. The police report will be sent to Supreme Court magistrate Alexander de Moraes for further review before it is handed over to the Prosecutor’s Office for determination of prosecution proceedings.
