The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced on Tuesday that it has conclusively determined that Filipe Martins, a Brazilian national and advisor to former President Jair Bolsonaro, did not enter the United States on December 30, 2022. This statement comes in response to claims made by Brazilian Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who alleged Martins’ presence in the U.S. on that date.
CBP officials clarified that their investigation, which included review of border crossing records and surveillance data, confirms that Martins was not in the United States during the specified period. The agency emphasized that its verification process is thorough and based on established border entry procedures.
The controversy arises amidst ongoing legal and political discussions involving Bolsonaro’s associates. Martins has been a prominent figure in Brazilian politics, often involved in public debates concerning Bolsonaro’s administration and related legal proceedings. The assertion by CBP aims to clarify any misconceptions about Martins’ movements during the specified timeframe.
There has been no official response from Martins or Brazilian authorities regarding the CBP findings. The resolution of this matter may influence ongoing investigations and political narratives surrounding Bolsonaro’s circle, but no further developments have been reported at this time.