Top intelligence official summoned in illegal surveillance probe - Valor International

The director-general of Brazil’s Intelligence Agency (ABIN), Luiz Fernando Corrêa, has been summoned by the Federal Police to testify in an investigation into an illegal surveillance operation allegedly carried out by the agency, Valor has learned.

The probe, dubbed the “parallel Abin” case, centers on the use of the FirstMile software during the Jair Bolsonaro administration to spy on political opponents, journalists, and justices of the Supreme Federal Court. Mr. Corrêa is expected to give testimony this week.

Investigators believe the operation also sought to shield Mr. Bolsonaro’s sons from legal scrutiny, undermine trust in Brazil’s electoral system, and spread disinformation. Among the main figures under investigation are Rio de Janeiro city councilman Carlos Bolsonaro (Liberal Party, PL, of Rio de Janeiro) and former ABIN director and current Congressman Alexandre Ramagem (PL of Rio), who now faces charges related to an alleged attempt to stage a coup.

Mr. Corrêa is also expected to be questioned about whether he authorized or had knowledge of alleged espionage targeting Paraguayan authorities. Leaked information suggests that ABIN engaged in hacking attacks on Paraguayan government systems and individuals involved in negotiations over the Itaipu hydroelectric dam.

The incident has strained diplomatic relations between Brazil and its neighbor. Paraguay summoned Brazilian ambassador José Antônio Marcondes to provide clarification, while also recalling its own ambassador in Brasília, Juan Ángel Delgadillo, for consultations—a diplomatic move that signals official displeasure.

Mr. Corrêa is considered a trusted figure by President Lula. He previously served as director-general of the Federal Police during Mr. Lula’s second term.

In an official statement, the agency said that “the director-general of ABIN remains at the disposal of the relevant authorities to provide any necessary clarifications—whether administrative, civil, or criminal—regarding matters reported in the press that relate to decisions made during the agency’s previous leadership.” Alessandro Moretti, the agency’s former second-in-command, has also been summoned to testify.

This article was translated from Valor Econômico using an artificial intelligence tool under the supervision of the Valor International editorial team to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to our editorial standards. Read our Editorial Principles.