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Brazil prosecutors target gangs with mega-operation against fraud and money laundering

On Thursday, Brazilian prosecutors launched a mega-operation to dismantle fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion linked to criminal gangs, targeting six fintech companies that processed 26 billion reais between 2022 and 2025.
PCC and Red Command, Brazil's two main criminal gangs, originated in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro prisons before spreading nationwide; last year, authorities uncovered networks infiltrating the fuel industry through money laundering schemes.
Luis Flavio Sapori, a public safety expert at Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, argues that targeting financial operations is more effective than deadly police raids, with authorities previously seizing about $220 million in assets.
Following a visit to Washington, Brazilian Sen. Bolsonaro lobbied President Donald Trump to designate PCC and Red Command as foreign terrorist organizations, though President Luiz and Lula oppose the move.
Public security remains a wedge issue for upcoming elections; then-Rio de Janeiro governor Castro previously described local groups as 'narco-terrorists,' echoing language used by the Trump administration.

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Brazil prosecutors target gangs with mega-operation against fraud and money laundering

Brazilian prosecutors have launched a mega-operation to dismantle fraud, money laundering and tax evasion, in the latest phase of an investigation targeting criminal gangs.

22 hours ago·New York, United States

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