Image: Zonebourse Suisse

US ICE Releases Fugitive Brazilian Ex-Spy Chief Alexandre Ramagem After Two Days

16 April, 2026.Crime.26 sources

Key Takeaways

Former Brazilian intelligence chief Alexandre Ramagem was detained by U.S. ICE in Orlando, Florida.
He was released from U.S. immigration detention two days later; no public reason given.
Ramagem fled Brazil after a 2025 coup-plot conviction with Bolsonaro, sentenced to 16 years.

Ramagem's Detention and Release

Ramagem was released from ICE custody just two days after being detained.

He fled Brazil after being sentenced to 16 years for his role in an attempted military coup.

Al Jazeera

He was detained following a traffic stop for a minor violation.

Paulo Figueiredo announced Ramagem is free and at home.

Brazil formally requested his extradition in December.

Flight and Extradition Efforts

Ramagem left Brazil clandestinely, crossing into Guyana before entering the US.

His whereabouts were discovered after police located a vehicle he used.

Al Jazeera

He was considered a fugitive after leaving before serving his sentence.

The Brazilian government began extradition proceedings in December.

ICE's detention was due to immigration status, not the formal extradition request.

Political Reactions and Asylum

Bolsonaro's son called Ramagem a true national hero.

“News Flash BRASÍLIA, April 16, 2026 (AFP) - Brazil's fugitive former intelligence chief was released Wednesday by US immigration authorities after being detained for two days, according to reports”