A key ally of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was arrested in Paraguay. Silvinei Vasques, a former Brazilian police chief, was apprehended Friday at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asuncion. He was attempting to flee to El Salvador.
Vasques was convicted as an accomplice in Bolsonaro's attempted coup. The Paraguayan National Migration Directorate (DNM) confirmed the arrest. He was detained for identity theft, attempting to bypass immigration controls.
The arrest adds further pressure on Bolsonaro and his inner circle. Brazilian authorities are expected to request Vasques' extradition. The Brazilian government has not yet issued a formal statement.
Bolsonaro, a far-right leader, faces multiple investigations in Brazil. These include his role in the January 8th riots in Brasilia. The riots saw his supporters storm government buildings.
Vasques will remain in Paraguayan custody pending extradition proceedings. His legal team has yet to comment. The investigation into the attempted coup continues in Brazil.
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