Brazil Federal Police to protect presidential hopefuls

Brazil’s Federal Police will work to protect presidential hopefuls in the general elections coming this year. The initiative should include team training and the distribution of vehicles at police districts across the country, as per a note released in Brasilia today (Jul 12).

“The operation will start after the candidacies are approved at party conventions, in compliance with legislation currently in effect. Over 300 police officers will be mobilized, some in dedicated teams, others from specialized units supporting the teams accompanying the candidates visiting each state,” the statement adds.

Protection

The selection of federal agents was based on their experience in personal protection, in addition to their skills as law enforcement.

“Teams are being formed for each candidate based on risk analysis conducted by a police intelligence group that will remain active throughout the electoral period,” the police stated, adding that “sociopolitical factors” should provide the basis for their efforts.

All special units were “brought under alignment in both technical and doctrinal terms” in 2021, the police went on to say. Since then, over 160 officers are reported to have received academy training on personal protection.

As it stands today, 12 future candidates await their conventions, to take place sometime between July 20 and August 5, when their presidential bid should be made official.