Federal Police Challenge Minister's INSS Case Measures, Involving Lula's Son

Brazil's Federal Police have formally challenged measures imposed by Supreme Court Justice André Mendonça, which increased oversight of an investigation into fraud within the National Social Security Institute (INSS). The case notably involves Fábio Luís Lula da Silva, the son of President Lula. The police are seeking judicial intervention through the Attorney General's Office (AGU) to contest Mendonça's directives. These directives mandate that all investigative actions be immediately filed with his office and that any reassignment of police officers from the investigative team requires prior notification to his cabinet. Sources within the police leadership have privately criticized these measures as judicial overreach and a violation of the police's operational autonomy. Further complicating the situation, Mendonça's decision to have data shared directly with his office has been interpreted by some as a sign of distrust in the police's impartiality. An investigator suggested that if the minister suspects misconduct, he should formally present evidence rather than acting on general suspicions against the institution. This confrontation marks an escalation in the dispute between Mendonça and the police. Previously, the minister had ordered the police to conclude their analysis of seized materials within 60 days, citing dissatisfaction with the investigation's pace. The Federal Police responded that they required more time and personnel, stating that 11 officers were insufficient for the task, with analysis of approximately 1,700 items only 40% complete. Mendonça had also previously requested the police maintain the current investigative team, demanding justifications for any changes, due to his dissatisfaction with prior alterations in the case coordination.