The capital of Brazil, Brasilia, was rocked by a pair of explosions near the Federal Supreme Court, resulting in at least one death. The court was evacuated, and plumes of smoke and fire were visible in the area. Federal police were quick to respond, deploying a rapid intervention group and a bomb control squad to investigate the scene. A police inquiry has been opened to look into the incident, which took place near the Supreme Court and an annexe building, where a car was parked. Witnesses reported seeing smoke coming from the car before the explosions occurred.
While no official motive has been identified for the bombing, reports suggest that one of the explosions coincided with an individual trying to enter the Supreme Court building. This person was reported dead in the explosion, indicating a possible link. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and other government officials expressed concern and alarm over the incident. The timing of the explosions, just days before a major international conference for the G20 economic forum, has raised concerns about security in Brasilia. The Three Powers Plaza, which houses Brazil’s federal government, has been the target of political violence in the past, especially after contentious events such as contentious protests and investigations.
The Three Powers Plaza is a significant area in Brasilia, comprising the presidential palace, Congress buildings, and the Supreme Court. The Brazilian Chamber of Deputies suspended its activities following the explosions, underscoring the need for enhanced security measures. Journalist Monica Yanakiew highlighted the vulnerability of the plaza due to its proximity and architecture. The recent history of political violence in the area, including the riot in early 2023 and allegations of election interference, has heightened tensions in the country. The Supreme Court has been a focal point of controversy, particularly after investigations into former President Bolsonaro and his allies for their involvement in the 2023 attack on the plaza.
Supporters of Bolsonaro have criticized Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes for his role in various inquiries and legal actions against the former president and his allies. De Moraes faced backlash from Bolsonaro and his supporters during a protest rally, where the former president accused him of political bias and overreach. The suspension of the social media company X by de Moraes further fueled tensions and accusations of censorship. The ongoing political unrest and contentious investigations have further divided the Brazilian society, with political figures and supporters clashing over issues of democracy, free speech, and abuse of power. The explosions near the Supreme Court have added to the already tense political atmosphere in the country.
The investigation into the bombings is ongoing, with federal police working to determine the motive and identify any suspects involved. The incident has raised concerns about security in Brasilia, especially ahead of the upcoming G20 summit. The government and law enforcement agencies have vowed to take necessary measures to ensure the safety of government buildings and officials. President Lula da Silva has called for unity and solidarity in the face of such acts of violence, expressing condolences for the victim of the explosions. The Brazilian society remains on edge, grappling with political turmoil and social unrest as investigations and legal battles continue to unfold in the aftermath of the bombings.
