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

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.

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.

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”

Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS)

President Lula said Ramagem must return to Brazil to serve his sentence.

Ramagem was expected to remain in the US while his asylum request is adjudicated.

The release added complexity to the diplomatic battle between Brazil and the US.