In a tragic incident on Wednesday evening, an explosion outside Brazil’s Supreme Court in Brasilia claimed one life and prompted the immediate evacuation of justices and staff. Police and firefighters confirmed that a man died at the scene, though his identity has not been disclosed.
The explosion occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. local time, shortly after the court’s session had concluded. Local media footage suggested two blasts, separated by roughly 20 seconds, in Brasilia’s Three Powers Plaza—a high-security zone housing Brazil’s Supreme Court, Congress, and the presidential palace.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was not in the nearby presidential palace at the time, according to spokesperson José Chrispiniano. Following the explosion, police cordoned off the area, while the presidential security bureau conducted a thorough sweep of the palace grounds. Earlier reports indicated a separate explosion outside Congress, though it appeared to have caused no damage.
Federal police have launched an investigation into the Supreme Court incident, though no motive has been disclosed. In recent years, the court has faced threats from far-right groups and supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro, particularly due to its efforts to combat misinformation. Justice Alexandre de Moraes has been a focal point for these tensions.
This tragic event underscores heightened security concerns in Brazil’s governmental heart. Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.
With inputs from AP