Petrobras reinforces security at refineries after threats

Petroleo Brasileiro SA has stepped up security at its refineries in a precautionary measure after threats against assets, including Brazil’s biggest fuel plant, two company officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity, Report informs referring to Reuters.

The threats were detected by Petrobras’ intelligence unit monitoring social media communications of supporters of Brazil’s far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro, the two people said.

The state-controlled company said on January 8 night all its assets and refineries were operating normally.

"Petrobras is taking all the preventative protective measures required, as a standard procedure," it said in a statement.

Thousands of Bolsonaro supporters on January 8 invaded the country’s Congress, presidential palace and Supreme Court, destroying furniture and shattering windows.

The threats to Petrobras targeted assets such as refineries in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Parana states, the people said. Petrobras has a 1,000-person private security workforce and is working with state police.