Brasilia, April 17 (RHC)-- Members of the Landless Movement and People Without Fear occupied Monday the apartment of Guarujá which was linked to former President of Brazil Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in the midst of investigations for alleged corruption and money laundering and for which he was sentenced to 12 years and one month in prison. 

"If it is Lula's, the people can stay, if not, why is he imprisoned?" the activists chanted as they argued that the allegations against the social leader lack evidence but that what is behind it is an attempt to leave him out of the presidential elections of October, in which most polls show as the most favorite to win if he runs. 

However, hours later the MTST activists were removed from the apartment by the police after they threatened to arrest everyone if they did not leave immediately.  While the property is owned by a Brazilian construction company, Brazilian Judge Sergio Moro determined that it is part of a bribe paid to Lula in exchange for contracts with the Brazilian oil company, Odebrecht. 

Social movements, the Workers' Party (PT) and Lula's defense stress that he has been convicted without evidence and also unjustly detained after a second-instance conviction.  

The apartment is located in Guarujá, on the southeast coast of the State of São Paulo and has 215 square meters, five bathrooms and bedrooms for service. 

The demonstrations for the freedom of the Brazilian leader have been maintained since he presented himself before the Federal Police in Curitiba earlier this month.  Social movements have vowed not to abandon their actions and struggle until justice is done and Lula is freed.