Lula coordinated Federal Police recall of officers assisting magistrates, sparking interference claims

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has directly intervened in the reassignment of Federal Police officers who were assisting judicial authorities, a move that has sparked accusations of political interference from within the Federal Police itself. The determination by the Ministry of Justice to recall these officers involved direct coordination between Lula and the Director-General of the Federal Police, Andrei Rodrigues.

Sources within the Federal Police suggest that a faction views the president's actions as political interference, particularly concerning delegates involved in sensitive investigations. Approximately a month prior, Lula publicly stated his intention to recall delegates he accused of "pretending to work." This move has caused unease among officers, with recurring commentary suggesting a specific delegate might be causing discomfort to the government. The broader measure was reportedly necessary because singling out one individual was not feasible.

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I sent the Minister of Justice to issue a note inviting all Federal Police delegates who are outside the Federal Police. Only those who are state secretaries will remain outside.

Reports indicate that the primary target of dissatisfaction may be Federal Police delegate Thiago Marcantonio, who has been assisting Minister André Mendonça in inquiries related to social security fraud and the Banco Master case. Marcantonio's past involvement in the "Lava Jato" (Car Wash) operation further complicates the situation for the government. The current administration is perceived to have implemented a wider recall to avoid appearing to target a single individual.

Official communications requesting the return of these officers have already been sent to the Superior Court of Justice and regional federal courts. While the Supreme Federal Court has not yet received such a document, Lula's initial announcement made it clear the measure would be comprehensive, with exceptions only for those serving as state secretaries. The Ministry of Justice officially states the objective is to strengthen the fight against organized crime, an argument contested by the National Association of Federal Police Delegates.

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The process of returning federal police officers, federal highway police officers, and penal police officers - following the widely publicized presidential directive - to reinforce and value the final activities and the fight against organized crime began at the end of April and is ongoing. The 100 return requests were sent, reaching over