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Politics

Fatal Attack on Brazil's Supreme Court Leaves One Dead

Thursday 14 November 2024 - 15:29

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In a tragic incident on Wednesday evening, a man attempted to attack Brazil's Supreme Court in Brasília but was believed to have died from his own explosives. Authorities have identified the individual as Francisco Wanderley Luiz, a former candidate for local council elections in 2020. Luiz, who ran as part of the Liberal Party, was found dead outside the Supreme Court building shortly after two explosions rocked the area. Witnesses reported seeing him throw what appeared to be explosives just before the blasts, but no one else was injured.

The scene was quickly secured, with a bomb disposal robot deployed to examine the man’s body. Authorities discovered a timer that may be linked to other explosive devices. Brazil’s Solicitor General, Jorge Messias, condemned the attack and pledged a thorough investigation. He emphasized the need to restore peace and safety in the country, particularly given the serious nature of the assault on the nation’s highest court.

Initial reports revealed that Luiz was from Rio do Sul in southern Brazil and had unsuccessfully run for office with the Liberal Party. The motives behind his actions remain unclear. In response to the attack, police confirmed that other explosives were found near the body, prompting careful efforts to prevent further harm. A bomb disposal team is working to safely neutralize any remaining devices.

Officials in Brasília, including Deputy Governor Celina Leão, have speculated that this could be an isolated incident, similar to other lone attacks witnessed globally. Local authorities have also considered the possibility that it was a suicide, given that Luiz was the only casualty.

Eyewitness accounts describe the attacker waving at passersby before throwing explosives at the Supreme Court building. One bystander recounted seeing smoke and flames after the explosion, while security personnel rushed to the scene. Fortunately, the building was evacuated as a precautionary measure, with all justices safe.

The incident occurred in the Praça dos Três Poderes, a symbolic site housing the presidential office and other key government buildings. This attack follows recent tensions, including last year’s disturbances when Bolsonaro’s supporters clashed with authorities after President Lula’s inauguration.

As investigations continue, authorities are focused on determining whether Luiz acted alone or if there is a larger network behind the incident. This event marks a concerning moment in Brazil’s political landscape just days before the anticipated visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping.