Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is facing serious allegations of embezzling luxury jewelry worth 6.8 million Brazilian reals (about $1.2 million) during his time in office, as revealed in an investigative report unsealed by the Supreme Court. The Federal Police have indicted Bolsonaro on charges of embezzlement, asset laundering, and criminal association in connection with high-value gifts, including diamond-encrusted Rolex and Patek Phillipe watches, a necklace, rings, and cufflinks, received from Saudi Arabia.
The police report suggests a criminal association was involved in the embezzlement of these gifts, which were received due to Bolsonaro's position as the former President. Some of the presents were allegedly given to government staffers acting on Bolsonaro's behalf during international trips.
The investigation further revealed that Bolsonaro's family received revenue from the illegal sale of the jewelry, which was not intended for personal possession but should have been incorporated into the presidential collection. The funds obtained from the sale were allegedly incorporated by Bolsonaro without using Brazil's banking system to conceal their origin.
Despite the indictment, Bolsonaro has not commented on the allegations but has previously denied any wrongdoing in relation to the jewelry. The Prosecutor-General of Brazil will review the police report to determine whether to file charges and proceed with a trial against the former President.
This recent indictment adds to Bolsonaro's legal troubles, as he is also facing accusations of falsifying his COVID-19 vaccination certificate and possible involvement in inciting an uprising in Brasilia in January 2023. The police report also implicates 10 other individuals, including two of Bolsonaro's lawyers, a retired army general, and a former energy minister from his administration.
As the investigation unfolds, the allegations against Bolsonaro continue to raise questions about his conduct during his presidency and the legal challenges he now faces. The former President's allies have criticized the accusations, labeling them as a legal witch hunt. The unfolding events surrounding Bolsonaro's indictment highlight the ongoing legal scrutiny faced by the former leader and his associates.
For more updates on this developing story and other news from Latin America and the Caribbean, visit AP's Latin America and Caribbean coverage.
