Italian ex-militant Battisti arrested in Bolivia, faces extradition

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Battisti was detained late Saturday in Bolivia "and will be soon brought to Brazil, from where he will probably be sent to Italy to serve a life sentence," tweeted Filipe G. Martins, a senior aide on international affairs to Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

Italy has repeatedly sought the extradition of Battisti, who has lived in Brazil for years under the protection of former leftist president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, now in prison for corruption.

Brazil - Campaign - Bolsonaro - Office - January

During Brazil's recent presidential campaign, the far-right Bolsonaro -- who took office on January 1 -- vowed that if elected he would "immediately" extradite Battisti.

In mid-December Brazil's outgoing president, Michel Temer, signed an extradition order for Battisti after a judge ordered his arrest. By then the Italian ex-militant was nowhere to be found.

Battisti - Saturday - City - Santa - Cruz

Battisti, 64, was arrested late Saturday in the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Brazilian Federal Police sources told Brazilian media. Bolivian officials have not confirmed the reports.

Italy's envoy to Brazil fired off a triumphant tweet upon hearing the news. "Battisti has been arrested! Democracy...

(Excerpt) Read more at: France 24

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