On April 13, 2026, Alexandre Ramagem, the former director of Brazil's intelligence agency (ABIN), was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Ramagem fled Brazil in September 2025 after being convicted for participating in a coup plot against President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who defeated the former president Jair Bolsonaro in the 2022 elections.

Ramagem was sentenced to 16 years in prison for his involvement in the conspiracy but escaped capture before serving his sentence. He was reportedly detained in Orlando, Florida, although the specifics surrounding his arrest remain unclear, including whether it was linked to a Brazil-initiated extradition request made in December 2025.

Sources indicate that Ramagem was arrested following a minor traffic violation, after which he was referred to ICE. Brazilian authorities have commended the cooperation between U.S. and Brazilian law enforcement that led to his apprehension. While his lawyers have not issued a statement, Ramagem has consistently maintained his innocence regarding the coup plotting charges.

Under Bolsonaro's administration, Ramagem was accused of utilizing a range of surveillance tactics, including the use of spy software to monitor political opponents, judicial figures, and media personnel. His actions were part of a broader strategy that aimed to undermine Brazil's electoral system and integrity.

The investigation into Ramagem's activities culminated in widespread criticism of Bolsonaro, leading to numerous convictions tied to the coup plot, including that of Bolsonaro himself, who is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence.

Following his arrest, Brazilian Senator Jorge Seif publicly stated that Ramagem is a victim of political persecution and has initiated efforts to seek his release and secure political asylum in the U.S. Ramagem's case continues to illustrate the complex interplay of political strife and legal challenges stemming from Brazil's recent tumultuous history.