Three HMEs exploded near the Supreme Court in Brasilia, bomber dead

Two explosive devices detonated in Brasilia’s Square of the Three Powers, the site of the country’s Supreme Court, Parliament, and Planalto Palace, the seat of the Presidency. A vehicle laden with homemade explosives (HMEs) was also discovered in the vicinity, a few hundred meters from the first incident. A third bomb, however, was not triggered. The perpetrator was identified as Francisco Wanderley Luiz, who had posted delusional messages on social media suggesting a planned bombing campaign against political targets. The bomber, described by the authorities as a ‘lone wolf’, perished in the detonation. The Federal District Fire Brigade and the Federal Police promptly initiated an investigation into the incident, which they have classified as a potential ‘act of terrorism’. A CNN Brazil crew reported that new explosions were heard in the following days. The information was corroborated by the Fire Brigade. In a statement, the Military Police indicated that the explosives are being deactivated individually, although the precise number is still unknown. According to official sources, additional explosive devices were discovered at the residence of the bomber in Ceiland. It is not yet clear whether the devices are of an artisanal or more sophisticated nature.