The National Association of Newspapers (ANJ) and the Brazilian Association of Investigative Journalism (Abraji) have voiced strong condemnation of a scheme to attack journalist Lauro Jardim of O Globo, labeling it an assault on the rule of law and freedom of expression. The alarming revelation follows the preventive detention of Daniel Vorcaro, owner of Banco Master, who was arrested by order of Supreme Court Minister André Mendonça after the Federal Police discovered messages on his cellphone indicating a plot to intimidate Jardim by staging an armed robbery against him.

In the messages attributed to Vorcaro, he expresses violent intentions towards Jardim, stating, 'I want to send someone to beat him up and break all his teeth during a robbery.' This situation has raised serious legal and ethical concerns about the safety of journalists in Brazil, as these threats come amidst a backdrop of increased scrutiny and potential risks faced by members of the press in their pursuit of truth and public accountability.

The context of this incident is further complicated by recent revelations published in Jardim's column, which linked prominent figures in Brazilian politics to controversial financial dealings. Such connections are likely to intensify pressures on freedom of the press in the country. As the situation unfolds, it reflects broader issues regarding the safety of journalists and the challenges they face in maintaining their integrity and independence, especially when reporting on powerful interests.