Brazilian authorities step up security ahead of Lula's inauguration

BUENOS AIRES

Authorities in Brazil announced Monday that they are stepping up security ahead of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva inauguration.

The move comes after a Jair Bolsonaro supporter was detained after placing an explosive device to create "chaos" near to the airport in Brasilia.

Authorities said it failed to explode.
Incoming Justice Minister Flavio Dino said authorities remain vigilant and will clamp down on threats.

"We are obviously going to anticipate certain acts, because there cannot be a vacuum of power," Dino said in an interview with GloboNews.

"We will take the measures so that this situation of instability does not occur," he added, referring to Jan. 1 when Lula assumes the presidency for a third term.

Dino said authorities believe others are involved in the incident.

"This is not an individual action, and we will not allow this in Brazil. We are not going to allow this political terrorism to take hold in Brazil," he said.

Businessman George Washington de Oliveira Sousa, 54, from the state of Para was detained.

Authorities described him as "ideologically" driven and after searches, found an array of weapons at his home.

Bolsonaro lost to Lula in a tight race Oct. 30. Lula garnered 50.9% of the vote compared to Bolsonaro’s 49.1%, according to Brazil's Superior Electoral Court (TSE).
In the aftermath of Lula's win, Bolsonaro supporters demonstrated and contested the results.

In Brazil, there is no indication of any irregularity, while overseas, election results were quickly recognized by various leaders.

Many Bolsonaro supporters blocked highways in Brazil and pushed for the military to intervene.

Prior to elections, Bolsonaro cast doubt about if he would respect the results, calling into question Brazil's electronic voting system without providing evidence