Surinamese politician Joel “Bordo” Martinus, a member of the ruling party, faced arrest in São Paulo, Brazil.
The arrest occurred on a Wednesday, as confirmed by the Public Prosecution Service (OM) of Suriname.
This move follows a Red Notice from Interpol Suriname, leading Brazilian Federal Police’s Interpol Unit to conduct the operation.
A string of serious allegations
Martinus, previously the chairman of the youth department for the ABOP party under Vice President Ronnie Brunswijk, is now embroiled in severe legal troubles.
Authorities have linked him to various criminal activities including murder, manslaughter, aiding in these crimes, participating in a criminal organization, narcotics violations, and money laundering.
The sparking incident
The investigation intensified after authorities discovered a plane buried near the border with French Guiana, pinpointing Martinus as a key suspect.
Furthermore, connections to a drug gang allegedly responsible for a murder related to this discovery have surfaced, although the victim’s body remains missing.
Claims of political persecution
From his undisclosed location, Martinus has proclaimed his innocence.
He argues that his arrest is politically motivated, orchestrated by adversaries within the ruling party as retribution for his critical views on President Santokhi’s administration.
Despite his fugitive status, Martinus remained active on social media, regularly hosting live streams to discuss and critique governmental policies and societal issues.
Ongoing legal battle
While the legal proceedings against Martinus and four co-suspects are still pending, the repercussions of his alleged actions have already taken a toll.
Following his identification as a suspect, the Santokhi government relieved him of his role as the director of the Anthony Nesty Indoor Stadium, demonstrating the significant fallout from this high-stakes legal entanglement.
