Bolsonaro and allies implicated in "Abin Paralela" spy scandal, PF confirms investigation

The Brazilian Federal Police (PF) has concluded an investigation into the alleged use of the Brazilian Intelligence Agency (Abin) for illegal espionage during the presidency of Jair Bolsonaro. The investigation, known as "Abin Paralela," has implicated Bolsonaro and several allies, including the current Abin director-general, Luiz Fernando Corrêa. Bolsonaro is already a defendant in a separate case for attempted coup d'état. The PF has confirmed the conclusion of the investigation and the existence of a criminal organization that monitored public authorities and produced false news using Abin systems.

The Brazilian Federal Police (PF) has concluded an investigation into the alleged use of the Brazilian Intelligence Agency (Abin) for illegal espionage during the presidency of Jair Bolsonaro. The investigation, known as "Abin Paralela," has implicated Bolsonaro and several allies, including the current Abin director-general, Luiz Fernando Corrêa. Bolsonaro is already a defendant in a separate case for attempted coup d'état. The PF has confirmed the conclusion of the investigation and the existence of a criminal organization that monitored public authorities and produced false news using Abin systems [1].

The investigation, which has been ongoing for months, uncovered evidence of a widespread illegal surveillance operation. The PF alleges that under Bolsonaro’s aides, Abin ran a "criminal organization of high offensive capability" from 2019 to 2023. The agency used a software called FirstMile, developed by the Israeli company Cognyte, to monitor political rivals, journalists, and environmentalists [1].

Among those targeted were Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, former São Paulo Governor João Doria, and the current head of Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies, Arthur Lira. The agency also spied on tax auditors investigating Bolsonaro's eldest son, Flavio Bolsonaro, to halt a corruption probe [1]. Additionally, journalists Monica Bergamo of Folha de S. Paulo and Vera Magalhaes of O Globo were targeted [1].

The investigation has added to a slew of probes against Bolsonaro, who was rendered ineligible to run for office in 2030 after a failed 2022 re-election campaign. He is also embroiled in a jewellery embezzlement case and a case pertaining to him forging his COVID-19 vaccine records [1].

The indictment of Bolsonaro and his allies comes as Brazil grapples with political instability and economic uncertainty. The revelations could further strain the country's political landscape and potentially impact investor confidence. Bolsonaro's legal troubles may also influence the upcoming presidential election in 2030 [2].

The PF has handed over the final report to the Supreme Court, which is currently under seal. The attorney general's office will now decide whether to file charges against Bolsonaro and his associates. The outcome of these legal proceedings could have significant implications for Brazil's political and economic future.

References:
[1] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/17/brazils-bolsonaro-accused-in-spy-agency-case-as-coup-trial-is-ongoing
[2] https://www.aol.com/news/brazils-bolsonaro-others-formally-accused-152456288.html