Brazil begins process for extradition request of former bank director Pizzolato

Brazil’s minister of Justice has already initiated the process for requesting to the Italian government the extradition of former Banco do Brasil marketing director Henrique Pizzolato, sentenced to twelve years and seven months in jail for money laundering, embezzlement and criminal conspiracy in the mensalão corruption scandal.

The ministry announced on Friday (Feb. 7) that a communication has been submitted to Brazil's Supreme Court in order to make it aware of the 40-day term so it can express its interest in Pizzolato’s extradition and send the Italian government all the documents required, as well as the official request.

Considered a fugitive since November, Pizzolato was arrested by the Italian police in Maranello on Wednesday (Feb. 5). He ran away to Italy in September, and had his name included in Interpol’s wanted persons list in over 190 countries.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira