A man died in an apparent suicide attempt after trying to enter Brazil's Supreme Court with explosives on Wednesday, just days before Brazil hosts the G20 summit.
Brasilia Governor Celina Leao confirmed that the man approached the Supreme Court and attempted entry but failed, resulting in an explosion at the court’s entrance. Thankfully, no one else was harmed.
Two explosions were reported outside the court. The first blast, which originated from a vehicle in the square, happened around 7:30 p.m. local time.
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Moments later, the second explosion occurred as the man attempted to enter the court, resulting in his death. Suspicious objects near the scene delayed the initial identification of his body.
This incident is critical for Brazil, as global leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and China’s President Xi Jinping, are scheduled to arrive for the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro.
Heightened security measures have been implemented in preparation for the summit, which will take place next Monday and Tuesday. Following the summit, President Xi is also expected to stay in Brazil for a state visit to Brasilia.
The Supreme Court reported that two loud explosions were heard at the end of Wednesday’s session, prompting a swift evacuation of the judges. The court is in Praca dos Tres Poderes, near the presidential palace and Congress.
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was not in the palace during the explosions, and additional police were deployed around the area.
Federal police have launched an investigation to determine the details and motive behind the blasts. This incident occurred in a region that experienced significant unrest in January 2023, when supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro stormed government buildings following his electoral defeat.
