Bolsonaro embezzled $1.2 mn worth of jewellery from Saudi Arabia: Police

Brazil's Federal Police allege former president Jair Bolsonaro embezzled jewellery worth 6.8 million Brazilian reals (about USD 1.2 million) during his time in office, according to the investigative report unsealed on Monday by the Supreme Court.

Bolsonaro was indicted last week charging embezzlement, asset laundering and criminal association in connection with the luxury jewellery from Saudi Arabia. The investigation adds pressure on the far-right leader who governed in 2019-2022 before losing his reelection bid to Luiz Incio Lula da Silva. He has already lost his political rights until 2030.

Bolsonaro has not commented on the indictment, but has previously denied any wrongdoing involving the jewellery.

The police report alleges there was "a criminal association for the embezzlement of high-value gifts that were received due to the position of former President Jair Bolsonaro". The jewellery included diamond-encrusted Rolex and Patek Phillipe watches, a necklace, rings and cufflinks