Protesters in Brazil Storm Congress and Supreme Court, Over 400 Arrested

Brazilian police have regained control of administrative buildings occupied by protesters in the capital, utilizing stun grenades and pepper spray. This information was reported by the Brazilian newspaper Folha.

So far, more than 400 individuals have been detained, all suspected of various crimes, primarily related to participation in mass disturbances. It is expected that many of the arrested supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro will soon be imprisoned. On January 8, 2023, they managed to temporarily seize the country's parliamentary building and the Brazilian Supreme Court.

The protesters expressed dissatisfaction with the results of the presidential elections held last autumn, in which the presidency transitioned from right-wing politician Bolsonaro (often informally referred to as the 'Brazilian Donald Trump') to left-wing politician Lula da Silva.

It is also noteworthy that Bolsonaro has quickly stated that he has no connection to organizing the mass disturbances. The politician has effectively distanced himself from his supporters, asserting that those participating in the protests against him have violated Brazilian law and should be held accountable in some way.