Former Brazilian Intelligence Chief Detained by ICE in Florida

Authorities apprehended Bolsonaro ally Alexandre Ramagem in Orlando.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:58pm

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An extreme close-up of a government vehicle's tinted window reflecting the warm glow of the setting sun, conceptually illustrating the political tensions surrounding the detention of a former Brazilian official.The detention of a former Brazilian intelligence chief in Florida highlights the political tensions between the current and previous administrations.Today in Orlando

Alexandre Ramagem, a former chief of the Brazilian intelligence agency and a close ally of former President Jair Bolsonaro, has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Orlando, Florida. Ramagem was wanted as a fugitive from Brazil's justice system.

Why it matters

The detention of Ramagem, a high-profile Bolsonaro associate, highlights the ongoing political tensions between Brazil's current government and the previous administration. It also raises questions about the cooperation between U.S. and Brazilian authorities in tracking down individuals wanted in their home countries.

The details

Ramagem, who previously served as the head of Brazil's intelligence agency, was apprehended by ICE agents in Orlando. He was wanted in Brazil on charges related to his time in the Bolsonaro government.

  • Ramagem was detained by ICE officers on April 14, 2026 in Orlando, Florida.

The players

Alexandre Ramagem

A former chief of the Brazilian intelligence agency and a close ally of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

Jair Bolsonaro

The former president of Brazil, with whom Ramagem was closely associated.

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What’s next

Brazilian authorities will likely seek Ramagem's extradition to face charges in his home country.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing political tensions between Brazil's current government and the previous Bolsonaro administration, as well as the international cooperation required to track down individuals wanted in their home countries.