Argentina Issues Arrest Warrants for Brazilian Rioters

An Argentine court has issued arrest warrants for 61 Brazilian nationals involved in the January 8, 2023, anti-democratic riots in Brasília, leading to the arrest of two individuals in La Plata. Judge Daniel Rafecas noted that these warrants apply to those with 'convictions with definite prison sentences,' following a Brazilian extradition request. Among the arrested is Joelton Gusmão de Oliveira, sentenced to 17 years for his role in the riots that sought to overthrow President Lula. The Brazilian government believes these riots were part of a coup attempt led by supporters of former President Bolsonaro. The arrests come amidst a broader crackdown on those convicted of serious crimes, as Argentina recently revoked political asylum for such individuals. The situation is compounded by a recent suicide bomb attack in Brasília, further escalating tensions surrounding the political unrest.