Brazil police chiefs protest against Temer's cry of persecution

RIO DE JANEIRO, April 27 (Xinhua) -- Brazil's National Association of Federal Police Chiefs (ADPF) issued an official protest Friday against President Michel Temer's remarks earlier in the day, calling the ongoing investigation into his alleged bribe-taking "persecution".

The federal police are investigating a corruption case in which Temer is accused of taking millions of U.S. dollars as bribe in exchange for a decree favoring businessmen operating the country's largest port.

"The ADPF reiterates that the Federal Police does not protect or persecute any person or authority, they only fulfill their legal mandate to investigate facts and actions considered crimes," the statement said, after Temer criticized the probe as "persecution disguised as an investigation".

Local media reported Friday that police suspect the president laundered the money by purchasing properties in the names of his family members, including his wife and nine-year-old son.

Temer denies any wrongdoing, saying it is an attack on his honor. He has also urged a crackdown on leaks of the investigation to the media.

"It is necessary to have serenity, especially from the one who commands the country, so that his statements do not become potential threats and lead to undue pressure (on) the Federal Police," the ADPF said. Enditem