Brazil’s former president said a combination of medications caused a psychotic episode that made him believe his ankle monitor contained a listening device.
Bolsonaro was arrested early Saturday after security officials detected tampering. Authorities suspected he was planning to flee to a foreign embassy.
Since his conviction for organizing a coup attempt, Bolsonaro has been under house arrest awaiting transfer to prison. His sentence was expected to begin shortly.
Bolsonaro testified that his prescribed medications induced paranoia and confusion. Acting under this delusion, he attempted to dismantle the tracking device with a soldering iron.
Commentators expressed skepticism, pointing out previous contradictions. Foreign reactions were muted, reflecting waning support.