Brazilian Federal Police investigate alleged electoral-support deal in Paraíba

Brazil’s Federal Police said it launched Operation Zona de Influência to investigate alleged negotiations between political actors and a criminal group over electoral support and candidates’ access to communities in Paraíba. The investigation reportedly concerns payments to a group leader, community-centre expenses and discussions involving public-sector jobs. Seven search warrants were executed, and a João Pessoa municipal secretary was placed on precautionary leave for 90 days.